Although it's often recommended that sauvignon blanc should be drunk fresh and young, it actually responds well to at least a few months or a year's bottle age, which can allow the fruit to come forward and the sometimes harsh acidity to integrate. Many of these were better the day after I opened them.
BEST VALUE
$21
Four Stars (out of five)
Good value
Everything you want in a Marlborough sauvignon blanc - citrus flower fragrance, intense mouth-filling flavours, a bright lively finish and lingering fruit on the aftertaste.
$20
Four stars
Good value
A burst of summer with floral and passionfruit aromas that leap out of the glass, golden kiwi and ripe peaches and apples follow on the palate along with nutty undertones, a textural intensity and well-structured, crisp finish.
$19
Three and a half stars
Average value
In a lightweight recyclable plastic bottle, this hints of herbs and raindrops on hot stones, green fruits and fresh asparagus, with pleasant weight and a crisp but easy finish.
$19
Three and a half stars
Average value
This was unforthcoming when first opened, but the following day it developed into an attractive wine with suggestions of fresh guava, a light pungency, an attractive intensity and nicely balanced finish. Give it a few more months before broaching.
$20
Three stars
Below average value
Hints of tropical and kiwifruit, light on the mid-palate but with a very crisp, lively finish.
$24
Three and a half stars
Below average value
Fragrant with green fruits - kiwi and gooseberry, and a suggestion of raindrops on hot stones, this bright, textural wine has a lively edginess and a crisp, dry finish. The fruit fills out and the wine develops finesse with exposure to air. Give it another few months before enjoying.
