Marlborough Wines
Known throughout the wine world for its production of Sauvignon Blanc, the Marlborough Wine Region is the most prolific of all wine producing areas in New Zealand. It is located in the northeast corner of the South Island and accounts for over 60% of the country’s grape production. Here, the soils are generally composed of sandy, alluvial loam and gravel, which provide excellent drainage and helps to limit Sauvignon Blanc’s vine vigor. The particular mix of soils combined with the daytime sun and significantly cooler nights create Sauvignon Blanc with intense acidity, vivid citrus and tropical fruit as well as a distinct herbaceous quality. Pinot Noir is also a popular variety in Marlborough, producing lighter-styled wines with bright cherry, raspberry and mineral notes. For a detailed list of all the top rated and best buy selections be sure to take a look at our Marlborough Wine Guide.
Eradus 2007 Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough)
- Editors' Choice
- $20
Much like the 2006, this is an excellent effort, combining ripe melon and fig flavors with leafy notes of fresh garden herbs and crisp citrus. It’s a touch viscous on the palate, finishing with superb length and freshness. Drink now.
— J.C.
(3/1/2008)
Gunn Estate 2007 Skippers Pool Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough)
- Editors' Choice
- $19
Takes the bold ripeness of the regular Gunn Estate bottling and kicks it up by adding herbal, passion fruit and pineapple flavors to the mix. The rich, creamy texture is balanced by the freshness and minerality of the lingering finish.
— J.C.
(5/1/2008)
Saint Clair 2007 Pioneer Block 1 Foundation Block Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough)
- $26
This offering continues Saint Clair’s recent string of successes—you basically can’t go wrong with the Reserve or single-block Sauvignons. The 2007 Block 1 offers classy, understated aromas of fresh-cut grass and grapefruit, then delivers plenty of weight and intensity on the palate, culminating in an elegant finish laced with red berries.
— J.C.
(5/1/2008)
Brancott 2008 B Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough)
- Editors' Choice
- Online Exclusive
- $26
One of Brancott's best Sauvignons in recent memory, the 2008 B is intensely herbal on the nose, featuring green tomatoes and bell pepper, but only mildly vegetal on the palate--well within the bounds of acceptable varietal character. It's on the full-bodied side of the spectrum, with a long, mouth-tingling finish. Try with sole Basquaise.
— J.C.
(7/1/2009)
Jackson Estate 2008 Stich Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough)
- Editors' Choice
- Online Exclusive
- $24
A lovely, ripe rendition of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, the 2008 Stich features bold passion fruit and guava shadings, a lushly textured mouthfeel and a long, vibrant finish. It should be consumed now and over the next few months.
— J.C.
(12/1/2009)
Saint Clair 2008 Omaka Reserve Chardonnay (Marlborough)
- Editors' Choice
- $24
Lavishly oaked, but richly fruited as well, with layers of ripe peaches and grilled nuts leaving a creamy impression of luxury on the palate. The finish is long and vanilla-tinged yet features mouthwatering citrus. Drink now–2012.
— J.C.
(7/1/2010)
Saint Clair 2009 Pioneer Block 2 Swamp Block Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough)
- Editors' Choice
- Online Exclusive
- $24
A terrific example of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, the 2009 Swamp Block features ripe melon and nectarine fruit, balanced by hints of garden greens, such as tomato leaf and bell pepper. It's plump and succulent on the palate, with a long, slightly honeyed finish.
— J.C.
(9/1/2010)
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2010 Pence Ranch Westslope
This is sourced from the winery's steepest and most wind-exposed blocks…
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