Awards and Accolades for the Sauvignon Blanc grape

Sauvignon Blanc is a versatile white wine grape, which is not only grown around the world, but also has its roots in France. It has become synonymous with New Zealand wine due to the country’s ideal climate and soil conditions for its production. The most well-known of these regions is Marlborough, which has become the benchmark for quality sauvignon blanc.

The introduction of Sauvignon Blanc into New Zealand in 1973 paved the way for this white wine grape to become famous for its unique qualities. In Marlborough, where the wine was initially intended to be blended with the French grape variety, Müller-Thurgau, it has become the dominant grape variety in the region. Today, about 25,000 hectares of vines are dedicated to the production of this iconic wine.

• Marlborough has become the most renowned region for its sauvignon blanc production.
• The region’s unique combination of low rainfall, long sunny days, and free-draining soil creates an ideal climate for the production of the wine.
• Marlborough’s sauvignon blanc is often described as crisp, dry and intensely aromatic, with flavors of green (asparagus, gooseberry, pea pod) and tropical fruit (passion fruit, melon).

In contrast, New Zealand sauvignon blanc is extremely popular globally, particularly among consumers. However, some wine experts and enthusiasts may be less inclined to praise it due to concerns that it may be produced in a similar manner across the entire range. Indeed, many New Zealand sauvignon blancs can have a similar taste profile due to effective branding and mass production techniques.

A unique aspect of sauvignon blanc is that it can be produced with a variety of styles, depending on the region where it is grown. From Hawke’s Bay in North Island, which is known for its full-bodied and ripe wines, to Nelson on the South Island, where elegant and refined wines are produced, each region contributes its own distinct style to the global sauvignon blanc market. One notable highlight is the versatility of Nelson sauvignon blanc, which has a different profile compared to its neighboring regions due to the region’s cooler climate. Greenhough’s River Garden sauvignon blanc, for instance, has a unique, greener style with herbal notes and peach and lemon undertones. Another excellent example of this is Inviniti Marlborough sauvignon blanc, with its classic, aromatic and limey flavors. Lastly, on International Sauvignon Blanc Day, which is celebrated on May 2, we should mark the occasion with a personal wine tasting, or even better, a self-imposed wine holiday, and indulge in the delightful flavors of this world-renowned white wine. Four standout examples of New Zealand sauvignon blancs worth your attention include:

1. Inviniti Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (£10.50 at The Wine Society, 12.5%).
2. Babich Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (£13.50 at Sainsbury’s, 13%).
3. Greenhough ‘River Garden’ Sauvignon Blanc (£16.40 at Tanners, 12.5%).
4. Absolut Wine Limited Sauvignon Blanc (£18.00 at Waitrose, 13%).

While a selection of a few high-quality and delicious New Zealand sauvignon blancs can suffice, there are plenty of other options available to cater to different tastes and preferences. Therefore, take your time to explore, and on International Sauvignon Blanc Day, raise a glass to toast the greatness of this white wine grape, one of the best in the world.

“Wine is a civilized thing because it has no hangover. It says good, good, good, and nothing bad, not even’see you soon’. Wine is civilized because you know what you are getting, a good drink in every glass.”

This, in essence, sums up the essence of New Zealand sauvignon blanc, a versatile, dependable and delightful grape. Whether you are a new and budding wine enthusiast or a seasoned aficionado, sauvignon blanc has something for everyone, whether it is its refreshing taste or crisp acidity. So let us savor this incredible wine on International Sauvignon Blanc Day, and raise a glass to the unparalleled New Zealand sauvignon blanc!