It's usually recommended to drink sauvignon blanc young but I find it's most delicious abouta year after harvest when it's had time to settle and integrate. The 2012s are drinking well now,but won't be around long as the brash young 2013s will be released soon.
BEST VALUE
$21
Average value
Three and a half stars (out of five)
Pale and fragrant, oozing passionfruit, gooseberry, green herbs, a hint of mineral and a suggestion of citrus, this is lively, fresh and and vibrant with an intense, assertive acidity.
$25
Four stars
Average value
Although aromas are initially restrained, this is mouth-filling with intense fruit (green kiwi and passionfruit) and mineral. A little barrel fermentation adds complexity and it has a well-balanced, fresh finish. Delicious.
$25
Four stars
Average value
At a year old this is drinking well, with mouth-filling fruit suggesting citrus marmalade, quince, currant leaf, mineral and fresh sweat, mellowed but still deliciously fresh and lively with an intense, crisp finish. Typically delicious Marlborough sauvignon.
$24
Four stars
Average value
With aromas of gooseberries, herbage and rain on hot river stones, this is ripe and mouth-fillingwith a slightly savoury undertone, a silky texture and a long, fresh, crisp finish.
$35
Five stars
Average value
This wine is a bit like a washed-rind cheese - the pungent aromas belie the delicious, complexity - ripe green fruits, asparagus, a suggestion of citrus, toasted coconut, roasted parsnip, mineral, and a lively, beautifully balanced finish. Barrel-fermented with wild yeast, this is not for the faint hearted but it takes sauvignon blanc to another level.
$38
Five stars
Average value
With complex aromas, hints of asparagus, sweat and even gearbox oil, this is mouth-filling with depth of flavour, textural with suggestions of nuts and savoury undertones, and a bright, crisp, well-balanced finish. Stylish, elegant and delicious.
ANOTHER GLASS
Gunn Estate Reserve Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2012
$20
Three stars
Below average value
With dusty aromas, with hints of apples and mineral and a simple fresh finish, this is a lighter style of sauvignon that will appeal to those who don't like full-on, assertive styles.
www. gunnestate.co.nz
Triplebank Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2012
$25
Three and a half stars
Below average value
A lively, aromatic wine with hints of herbs, currant leaf, gooseberries and mineral with a fresh,long finish.
