Auntsfield Single Vineyard Methode Ancestrale 2025

Auntsfield Méthode Ancestrale is a lively, gently cloudy Muscat fizz with fresh apple, nashi pear and elderflower leading into wild honey, exotic spice and a subtle minty lift. Crisp acidity keeps the aromatic fruit bright, while the yeast left in bottle adds weight, soft bubbles and a savoury touch of brioche and almond. It comes from the historic block where David Herd planted Marlborough’s first vines, using the same Muscat clone and old-school ancestral method. Light, distinctive and full of charm, this is brilliant with cheese, charcuterie, spicy food or an afternoon requiring something far less predictable than Prosecco.

What the winery says:

The Petits Grains Muscat comes from Auntsfield’s original vineyard site, where the vines are trained along wire and mānuka posts in recognition of the historic plantings. After whole-bunch pressing, natural fermentation begins in tank before the wine is chilled, clarified and bottled under crown seal with a small amount of sugar remaining. Fermentation then finishes inside each bottle, creating the bubbles naturally, with the yeast left in place and no further additions made. Apple, elderflower, nashi pear, mint and wild honey develop into floral Muscat spice, supported by fresh acidity, light lees texture, brioche and almond.

What the experts say:

Cameron Douglas MS, 93/100 & Excellent
“Crisp and dry, delicious with a core of citrus and lees flavours, great mouthfeel and charm.”

Suzie Barrie MW & Peter Richards MW, 93/100
“The result is an aromatic, grapey fizz with floral hints and a faint odor of fermentation.”

Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review, 91/100 & 4 Stars
“Give it a good chill and enjoy a taste of Marlborough’s history with an eye on the future.”