2024 Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough

A punchy sauvignon blanc with layers of lees-enriched texture wrapped around the core of classic gooseberry, blackcurrant leaf and celery salt. This is concentrated and youthful with palate weight coming from a touch of sweetness which is revealed on the finish 14 Feb 2025 Drink 2025–2027

92 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough is a top-tier wine that perfectly captures the essence of one of New Zealand's most celebrated wine regions. Marlborough, known for its cool climate and long, sun-filled days, is the ideal place to grow Sauvignon Blanc, and Saint Clair, a family-owned winery, has become renowned for producing some of the region's finest expressions of this iconic grape variety.

The winemaker behind Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc is the talented Neal Ibbotson, who has over 30 years of experience in winemaking and is known for his ability to craft wines that balance freshness, intensity, and complexity. The Wairau Reserve is Saint Clair's flagship Sauvignon Blanc, and it’s made from fruit grown in the heart of the Wairau Valley, where the combination of soil, climate, and vineyard management results in exceptional quality grapes. The wine undergoes cool fermentation in stainless steel to preserve the fresh, vibrant flavors, and minimal intervention is used to let the true character of the fruit shine.

In the glass, Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc displays a brilliant pale gold color with a slight green hue, a clear indication of its fresh and youthful nature. The nose is an aromatic explosion of citrus, tropical fruit, and herbaceous notes. Ripe lime, grapefruit, and passionfruit dominate, while underlying aromas of fresh-cut grass, gooseberry, and a hint of nettle add depth and complexity. There’s also a subtle mineral quality that reflects the unique terroir of Marlborough.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and vibrant, with a burst of crisp citrus and tropical fruit flavors that are both refreshing and mouthwatering. The acidity is bright and zesty, providing excellent balance and structure, while the wine’s texture is smooth and round. The finish is long and clean, with lingering flavors of grapefruit and lime zest, along with a touch of herbal freshness that adds an extra layer of complexity.

Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc is a versatile wine that pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of foods. Its bright acidity and vibrant fruit make it a perfect match for seafood, especially shellfish like oysters, prawns, or grilled fish. It also pairs beautifully with goat cheese, fresh salads, and dishes with a zesty, citrusy dressing. For a more substantial pairing, try it with grilled chicken, Asian-inspired dishes, or a fresh summer vegetable medley.