The 2007 Francis Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc is whole-cluster pressed then matured under 12% new French oak for 11 months. An intense nose, slightly herbaceous with touches of gooseberry and wild nettle, then in the background a touch of chalk dust. The palate is medium-bodied, quite soft and subtle on the entry, nice acidity, builds nicely again in the mouth with subtle tropical tones (guava and passion fruit) peeking their heads around the corner, segueing into an attractive spicy finish. Impressive – just a shame there will be no 2008! Brian Bicknell is continuing to invest in Mahi since ceasing his consultancy work in 2006. The winery was still being constructed in January but thanks to the late harvest it was completed a week before the grapes were picked. He feels that the work they have put into their contracted vineyards that are certified organic, are beginning to pay dividends.Importer: Vine Street Imports, Philadelphia, PA; tel. (215) 533-9463