This is the fourth vintage from Sam’s female focused label, Samantha May. As the owner and namesake, Sam was not going to budge on putting her stamp solidly on what is bottled – bringing highly quaffable, fruit-forward wines that don’t need rules to enjoy.
We spoke to Sam at her recent “Meet Your Maker” tasting event, here’s what she wants you to know about two of her outstanding drops, the Sauvignon Blanc, and Rizzo red blend.
Samantha May Sauvignon Blanc 2025
Single vineyard from 'Gordon Hills', 900m altitude, Orange NSW. Direct pressed, cold settled in stainless and moved to barrels for fermentation in a second fill Austrian Puncheon (500L) and the remainder in more neutral French barriques (225L). The fermentation was permitted to run a little on the warmer side and in turn this 'blows' off some of the greener pepper and tropical aromas found in the juice of Sauv B. This Sauvignon Blanc is not made in the more common fruitier style, the wine intention is more savoury and textured, driven by the oak maturation and regular battonage on lees. I aspire to make my Sauvignon Blanc similar to Sancerre.
The lovely natural acidity that comes from grapes from Orange gives the wine lots of life and compliments the citrus profile. This wine completed fermentation with native yeast and is unfiltered. I prefer not to filter this wine so it can be fully expressive, generous and in time slightly 'oily' on the palate. The wine underwent partial malolactic fermentation. Minimal sulphites used post fermentation and pre bottling.
This wine is often pleasing to 'Sauvignon Blanc drinkers' and unexpectedly very much enjoyed by those who do not usually choose Sauvignon Blanc.
Samantha May Rizzo 2025
Chilled red! A fun red blend with leading varieties of Tempranillo grown organically in Mudgee by Vinifera Vineyard made traditionally with a native yeast, fermented on skins for 7 days. Aromas of rose petals and red berries, followed up with a lovely lick of velvety tannin, so bright, so refreshing, so fun! (We would like to add – this wine is incredibly moreish too!)
Grab a few soft cheeses, a big charcuterie plate, some quality company and get amongst it!