With a sea of vineyards that stretch from east to west as far as the eye can see Marlborough is one of the most stunning parts of New Zealand. And depending what season you visit you will be astounded by the barrenness in summer and the snow caps in winter. For all that this is sauvignon blanc territory that has seen an enormous surge of growth with over 120 wineries and 40 cellar doors from the first grapes planted here only 50 years ago.
Renowned for producing some of the best sauvignon blanc in the world one of the first vineyards in Marlborough to gain international fame is Cloudy Bay with a collection of labels that have become household names. Deep in technology and modern day winemaking techniques only the best grapes are selected for harvest and while this produces less bottles the end result is premium wines.
This down to earth approach started back in 1983 when David Hohnen tasted his first sauvignon blanc and the beginning of the journey to bottle the very essence of Marlborough. Enter Kevin Judd winemaker two years later and Cloudy Bay was borne. It was this relationship that went some way to put New Zealand sauvignon blanc onto the world stage.
From sampling some of the latest releases here are my picks across a range of price points.
’20 Cloudy Bay Te Koko sauvignon blanc
RRP $72
Styled to capture all the varietal and regional expressions and classic flavours expected of Marlborough. This crisp refreshing easy to drink wine is well integrated with a medley of citrus texture and complexity. Pair with fish, lobster, prawns, shrimps and green summer leafy salads.
’20 Cloudy Bay chardonnay
RRP $47
Bright and fresh with expressive aromas and intense ripe flavours that are big and bold on the nose with plenty of deep tropical citrus overtones that linger long on the palate. Best served with seafood, turkey, roast chicken, pasta, pork and vegetarian dishes.
’20 Cloudy Bay Pelorus rose
RRP $40
This light and dry sparkling wine is a blend of chardonnay and pinot noir that is fresh and lively and laden with ripe and bright flavours of fresh citrus. The ideal choice for warm summer evenings. At its best when paired with seafood, fish, chicken, pasta, salads and Asian dishes.
’19 Cloudy Bay Te Wahi pinot noir
RRP$130
Richly fruited with savoury aromas nicely partnered with a delicate and fresh finish on the palate that makes for a well balanced wine that deserves to be at the top of the table. This is pinot noir at its best. Serve with lamb, pork, beef, venison, duck and game.
