Handford Wines

Established in 1982 in the Wairau valley, Marlborough, on the Omaka Terrace. This site is unusual in Marlborough as it combines deep, free draining gravel with a narrow layer of calcium rich clay in the subsoil. The water table is comparatively deep here, reducing excessive vigour and the associated herbaceous flavours. The vineyard is densely planted, with twice as many vines per acre as most Marlborough vineyards. Until 1996 the grapes were sold to other wineries, including Cloudy Bay. Jeff Sinnott, master viticulturist and skilled winemaker, took control in 1998 when a new winery was built on site. Since then Isabel has gone from strength to strength.

The Wine

Isabel Estate aims to produce true "Estate" wines - wines produced only from vineyards under its total viticultural control. Previously contract growers for Cloudy Bay amongst others, in 1996 Mike and Robyn Tiller decided to release their own bottling and Isabel Estate was born. The wine offers a classic Marlborough Sauvignon for a highly competitive price.

Single Bottle: £13.99

In a case of 12: £13.29