2022 Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough

Weighty, concentrated, textural wine with green apple, grapefruit, capsicum, ginger, and gooseberry flavours. Needs a little more ripeness to gain a higher score. Punchy acidity. 08 FEB 2023 Drink 2023–2026

93 points Bob Campbell MW therealreview.com

Proximity to the ocean sees stronger maritime influences on the vineyards in the lower Wairau Valley where the fruit for the Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc was grown. The daytime temperatures are warm, facilitating ripening, while the night temperatures are typically cooler than the central and upper parts of the Wairau Valley. This promotes increased hang time and flavour development. Nutrient-rich soils deposited over time due to non-erosive flooding (prior to stop bank flood protection being introduced) have formed even and fertile sites. The nutrient hungry Sauvignon Blanc vines utilise this fertility to produce extremely concentrated flavours and aromas.

Pale straw. Exceptionally expressive and intense with an infusion of ripe passionfruit, blackcurrant leaf and crushed fresh thyme. Opulent and complex with concentrated layers of bright citrus and tropical fruit. The palate is crisp and full, with a salty mineral texture and a lingering finish.