While the new 2016 vintage is about to start in the Southern Hemisphere, and therefore around New Zealand, the 2015 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc vintage will be remembered as one of the greatest in recent years if not the whole of history.
Saint Clair Family Estate winery is one of the most famous and respected producer in New Zealand, acknowledged in particular for the quality of their Sauvignon Blanc.
Their single vineyard ‘Pioneer Block’ range offers a variety of unique expressions of the Marlborough terroir. See for example the review of the Pioneer Block 25 Point Five Sauvignon Blanc.
But Saint Clair also offers an entry-level Sauvignon Blanc that is easier to find worldwide and more affordable, the one we are tasting today that comes under the ‘Premium’ range.
Fruit:
The grapes for this wine were sourced from vineyards located in the Dillons Point and the lower Wairau sub-region of Marlborough.
Winemaking:
Grapes are transported rapidly to the winery and pressed off immediately to minimize skin contact and preserve the refine expression of Sauv Blanc. Juices are then cold-settled and fermented at cool temperatures using selected yeast strains. This wine is a blend of various batches of Sauvignon Blanc combined to be harmonious and reflect Saint Clair’s signature style.
So how good is this 2015 Sauvignon Blanc in reality?
The answer is in the tasting notes:
A good all-rounder and typical Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. It delivers a definite kick in flavor intensity with a characteristic grassy character combined with plenty of sweaty passion fruit, and a lot of esters (pear, banana) being the 2015 latest release.
This is a nice and somewhat refined wine with a definite enjoyable minerality, accentuated by the citrusy acidity. It is well balanced by a rounded, almost-oily texture the acidity still manages to cut through. The wine feels dry.
A well-executed, clean, sharp, and refreshing wine.
Food matching:
Pair with summery dishes, seafood, and light salads. White meats in subtle sauces also recommended.
Dream Food Pairing:
Chicken in lime, dill, and white pepper creamy sauce.
Drink now to enjoy the maximum power and fruity character. But the wine will easily age 2 to 3 years.
Please let me know your thoughts