Long regarded as one of New Zealand's finest Sauvignon Blanc, this 2022 Sauvignon Blanc is a blend from three specially selected vineyards in two different subregions of Marlborough. Two of the vineyards are in the upper Awatere Valley (Shamrock and Trelawne Farm) with the third being Te Whare Ra's certified organic home block in Renwick.
The 2023 Te Whare Ra Sauvignon Blanc release shows distinctive Awatere characters of guava, white currant and elderflower coupled with lovely ripe passionfruit and tropical notes and hints of basil and lime from the Wairau fruit.
These follow through to the palate, which is fine and soft with loads of fleshy fruit balanced by a ripe, juicy acidity and lingering minerality. There is real fruit weight here and that is complemented by lovely texture from the time on lees and the barrel parcels. A top class Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc that will only enhance the reputation of this producers.
"95 Points. 80/20% Awatere/Wairau Valley fruit; 10% goes into oak for ferment. Blackberry leaf, Thai basil and yellow guava. Blueberry flesh, fennel and chalk. The palate is weighted with ripe passionfruit, nectarine and honeysuckle. This is ripe and rich. It's densely packed and acidity trots in line, enabling a long, slippery finish. A hint of celery salt and raw cashew on the finish with a smattering of lacey skin texture. Lots of value here, for the price tag, and a memorable wine. 13.5% alc. Drink 2024-2026" - Shanteh Wale, Halliday Wine Companion
