So you love New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc? Who doesn’t! To be truthful, although some of course are better than others, it’s difficult to find a bad one. In another way, though, it’s a shame that Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand gets so much attention while many other great Kiwi wines are ignored. Their Pinot Noir is getting some well deserved consideration, yes, but last year during a visit to New Zealand we also tasted some absolutely delicious, world class Pinot Gris, Viognier, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Verdelho, Chardonnay, and even some Arneis among the whites, and up in Hawkes Bay especially some fantastic Syrah, Cabernet, and Merlot. (I’m hearing, too, that New Zealand Grüner Veltliner may be the next big thing.) Many of these, unfortunately, are difficult to find in our local market, at least until we see a greater demand.

            In the meantime there’s Villa Maria Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2010. Villa Maria prides itself in being the most awarded winery in New Zealand. And although one of the largest, it’s still family owned. Most of us are very familiar with the entry level Private Bin Sauvy – the 2010 was awarded 90 points by Wine Spectator while we were visiting (good cue for a party). The Cellar Selection is a step up again in quality. The fruit is sourced from the justly famous Awatere and Wairau Valleys of Marlborough, and are harvested in the cool of the night to ensure it arriving at the winery in pristine condition.

            The winemaker’s notes read –

            A beautifully intense and lively wine, overflowing with aromas of ripe gooseberry, melon and passionfruit with hints of grapefruit, lime and nettles. The wine is mouthfilling and juicy with vibrant fruit and fantastic mid palate richness and weight, finishing rich and racy with excellent length and crispness.

            By all means, you should treat yourself to this lip-smacking wine. It pairs well with shellfish, white fish, and even salmon – especially when they have a citrus or garlicky sauce – as well as most Asian cuisine. Enjoy!

Bill Stobbs

ABC Wine Supervisor

(Follow me on Twitter at abcwinebills)