NZ & International Sauvignon Blanc

December 19, 2024 (Cuisine magazine Issue 227)

A favourite of drinkers and winemakers alike, sauvignon blanc puts a smile on everyone’s face, says MARY-THÉRÈSE BLAIR.

There’s a joke in the world of wine that sauvignon blanc is the accountant’s favourite wine. If you’re sitting there thinking, “My accountant drinks red,” let me explain.

I’m specifically referencing winery accountants. Making wine is an expensive endeavour and a lot of patience is required when it comes to recouping your investment. Expensive oak barrels sit for years harbouring litres of potential profit as it’s not until the wine is sold that there’s actual cash in the bank. Sauvignon, for the most part, is the first cab off the rank when it comes to getting wine into bottle and onto the shelf. Made predominantly in stainless steel tanks (no pricey oak here), grapes that are harvested in March can be in the consumers’ hands by September and that all important cash in the bank. So you can see why the winery accountant in particular loves a bit of savvy B in the summertime.

And with this lovely lineup of our judge’s top picks, there’s plenty for you to love, too.

top NZ & International Sauvignon Blanc

Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc 2024 (Marlborough)

If there is a brand that is synonymous with New Zealand wine it’s Villa Maria. The company’s history is long with its very first wine bottled and sold in 1962, harvested from a one-acre block in Māngere, Auckland. The owner and founder George Fistonich leased the land from his father at the tender age of 21. The young man grew alongside his business and Villa Maria is nowadays globally recognised as a quality New Zealand wine brand. George became Sir George Fistonich, acknowledged for his contribution to New Zealand wine.

Through the years, Villa Maria has been innovative and forward thinking. In 1995 it was a founding member of Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. In 2001, it was the first major wine label to move every wine in their portfolio to screw cap to protect and ensure consistency of quality.

Undoubtedly the biggest change of all came when Villa Maria was acquired in 2021 by Indevin Group. With a focus mostly on the sale of bulk wine, it sparked concerns within the industry as to whether Villa Maria would be subsumed by the largely brandless company. As time has gone on it’s become clear that this beloved brand isn’t going anywhere. It continues to line shelves and be consumed with gusto all over the world and, for this, wine lovers are glad.

A lovely inciting nose resplendent with white florals and citrus against aromatic herbal savoury elements that add complexity. The palate is multi dimensional, well balanced and elegant with a tight bright acidity that gives the wine drive and a long and refreshing finish. The very definition of best buying.

 

| $17
→ more 1 View All Results in the Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc 2024 (Marlborough) Tasting

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  • Outstanding 7
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  • Good 63
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