Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2023

Cloudy Bay Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Wairau Valley, New Zealand, 2023    

Grape: 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Producer Tasting Note: 

The 2023 Sauvignon Blanc has an enticing nose, with appealing aromas of ripe honeydew melon, passionfruit, vibrant citrus and a subtle touch of fresh blackcurrant leaf. The palate is concentrated and elegant, with hints of fresh sea air balancing out the warmth of the ripe fruit notes at the wine’s core. Subtle tropical fruit characters are underpinned by freshening notes of makrut lime, lemongrass, Meyer lemon and a touch of grapefruit skin.

Cloudy Bay's Sauvignon Blanc fruit comes largely from vineyards planted in Wairau Valley’s Rapaura, Renwick and Brancott Valley sub-regions. The area’s warm, dry maritime climate and free-draining gravelly soils are perfect for Sauvignon Blanc. Key blocks include the Estate, Motukawa, Widow's Block, Red Shed, and Mustang vineyards.

Fruit from each vineyard ferments separately, primarily in stainless steel tanks before blending, a critical step in maintaining Cloudy Bay’s famous consistency. A 4% portion was fermented in large oak vats and another portion received wild yeast ferment. Rather than blending to make more wine, the winemakers carefully select the right grapes for each year’s wine. In 2023, from 82 batches tasted, 50 portions were selected to create the final blend. This means the quantity may change, but never the quality.

Critic's Tasting Note:

"Crisp, uncompromisingly dry sauvignon blanc with lemongrass, saline/oyster shell, red pepper and pineapple flavours. Intense, vibrant wine that lives up to its exalted reputation. Drink 2023–2027"

95/100 points, Bob Campbell MW, THE REAL REVIEW, 2024

Also "DOUBLE GOLD" at 2024 Sakura Awards (Japan)

Food Pairing:

Sauvignon Blanc 2023 is a natural match for almost any seafood. Some favourites at the winery include tempura oysters, locally-caught sashimi, and steamed mussels with garlic, citrus and parsley. It’s also a great match for green salads and goats’ cheese. A hint from the producer: if it goes with lemon, it goes with Sauvignon Blanc.