When you’re looking for a wine that is guaranteed to delight, look no further than the diverse array of wine varieties and styles from New Zealand. Although New Zealand produces only 1% of the world’s wine, I know that you’ll find one to appreciate and thoroughly enjoy. How about Sauvignon Blanc (the variety that put New Zealand on the wine map!), Chardonnay, Gewurtztraminer, Pinot Gris or Riesling? Then again, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon blends, or Syrah are magnificent. But the list isn’t complete. You may prefer Albarino, Gruner Veltliner, Tempranillo and more, all grown in lesser quantities.
The core to New Zealand’s success is its temperate maritime climate (no vineyard is more than 80 miles from the ocean) with abundant sunshine and cool nights, passion of the wine producers and winemakers, and distinctive characteristics of the wines. Wine regions, each with unique soils, extend 1000 miles from the subtropical Northland down to Central Otago, known for the world’s most southerly vineyards.
But there’s more. For over 30 years, New Zealand has been at the forefront of sustainable wine growing within the global wine industry. A nationwide certification program, Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand, now includes 98% of New Zealand’s vineyard area and 90% of the country’s wine production. From water conservation and biodiversity initiatives to emissions reduction and lightweight packaging, sustainability is deeply embedded in how New Zealand wines are grown and produced. For more about this important initiative, click HERE.
Photo Credit: NZwine.com
In today’s article, the focus is on two wines of Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, the largest wine growing region in New Zealand. Located on the northern part of the South Island, Marlborough brought international attention to New Zealand with its magnificent Sauvignon Blanc released in the 1980s. Yet, a vast range of varieties is cultivated in the region thanks to diverse soils and meso-climates. Marlborough boasts a cool and sunny climate with low rainfall and somewhat fertile soil that when blended, produces distinctive wines. Currently, over 20,000 hectares of vines accounting for about 2/3 of the national total are cultivated.
Two Wines of Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough
Whereas Sauvignon Blanc from France tends to be more mineral driven and on the lighter side, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is more fruit forward and bold.
Loveblock TEE Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2023 holds the high honor of being ranked #33 in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of the Year for 2025. This beauty has no added sulphur, a wine preservative used by many producers. Just delicious, the stunning sunshine of New Zealand came through with each sip. Elegant aromas and flavors of orange blossoms, exotic spice (cumin!), basil, peaches, and juicy pineapple were complex and textured. Winemaker Kim Crawford has done it again! Organic and vegan friendly, pair sips of the Loveblock TEE with your favorite seafood, goat cheese, light pasta dish, or chicken with a light and savory sauce.
Wairau River Estate Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2025 is from fruit sourced from the Estate’s vineyards located across the Marlborough region. Incredibly expressive with vibrant acidity and complexity, I noted ripe tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, lemon, and melon along with juicy grapefruit and stone fruit including peaches and sweet apricots. The finish was fresh and the wine was a joy to sip and complement grilled shrimp tacos followed by fresh fruit salad. Of course your favorite sushi or classic fish and chips are mouthwatering pairings, too.
Find these wines and enjoy the taste of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough!
Cheers! ~ Cindy
