Sauvignon Blanc Day 2021 -

The Vigneview

Just in case you haven’t heard, it’s Sauvignon Blanc Day 2021! This year I’m celebrating with two different Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand. Both wines are from Marlborough but come from two distinctly different growing areas within this region. It’s difficult for me to say exactly which one is my favourite, as they each offer such amazing flavours and aromas.

The Ned 2020 Sauvignon Banc from the Waihopai Valley

The Waihopai Valley is located in the western part of the Southern Valley’s Region of Marlborough, which is on the Northeastern tip of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s surrounded by the Wairau and Awatere Valleys. The Waihopai Valley is known for its clay soil and colder growing conditions where frost can be problematic. Sauvignon Blanc from this area is aromatic and filled with fresh ripe fruit and grassy, herb-like flavours and aromas.

Named after a mountain summit in the Waihopai Valley, The Ned wine is one not to be missed. Aromas of passion fruit, white peach, gooseberries and fresh-cut grass are abundant. There’s a lovely uplift of acidity on the finish, which helps prolong the flavours. Great enjoyed on its own or with food, no wonder this wine is a top seller. I’m loving this one!

Food Pairing

I would pair The Ned with cod fish tacos drizzled in a lime-cilantro sauce and a side of coleslaw!

Producer: The Ned

Country: New Zealand

Region: Waihopai Valley

Vintage: 2020

Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc

Closure: Screw cap

Style: Still

Price: £11.29

Colour: Pale Lemon

Sweetness: Dry

Acidity: High

Alcohol: 13%

Body: Light-bodied

Aromas/Flavours: Passionfruit, grapefruit, white peach, gooseberry and fresh-cut grass

Drinking Window: Drink now!

Goldwater 2020 Sauvignon Banc from the Wairau Valley

The Wairau Valley is the northernmost valley in Marlborough and is known for having gravely, river rock soil that follows the riverbed. The growing conditions vary between vineyards as there are so many microclimates within this region. The Goldwater Vineyard is one of the oldest in New Zealand. The Sauvignon Blanc from this vineyard is known for having a bit more body with intense aromas and flavours. A cooler-climate and less-fertile soil leads to lower fruit yields with more concentrated flavours.

This Goldwater 2020 Sauvignon Blanc has pronounced tropical fruit flavours such as passion fruit and guava as well a vibrant minerality on the palate. I also detected a capsicum note on a long finish. This one is also a keeper! Wow, I’m spoiled for choice!