Tasting: Sauvignon Blanc - Marlborough, New Zealand
Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, aromatic white wine known for its high acidity and vibrant flavors. Common tasting notes include citrus (lime, lemon, grapefruit), green apple, tropical fruits, and herbal elements like fresh-cut grass or bell pepper. Depending on where it's produced, expressions can range from zesty and mineral-driven to more tropical and floral.
The Wines Tasted
2023 Mayfly Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand) – $14.99
Tasting Notes: Pale straw color, strong citrus aroma with dominant grapefruit. Bright acidity, very zingy, with a lingering flavor.
Score: 15 (Scott), 16 (Lynn)
Combined Scores: 31
2023 Clearwater Cove Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand) – $11.99
Tasting Notes: More golden in color, slightly muted aromatics. Less citrus-driven, with hints of wet grass and light fruit flavors. Softer acidity, more balanced but less characteristic of a classic Sauvignon Blanc.
Score: 14 (Scott), 15 (Lynn)
Combined total Score: 29
2023 Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand) – $16.99
Tasting Notes: Light straw color, citrus and green apple on the nose. Bright acidity with a mix of lemon, lime, and orange flavors. A well-balanced wine with a long finish.
Score: 18 (both tasters)
Combined total Score: 36
2022 13 Celsius Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand) – $12.99
Tasting Notes: Very pale and crisp appearance. Aromas of green apple, lime, and subtle floral notes. High acidity, complex flavors with a refreshing and lingering finish.
Score: 18 (both tasters)
Combined total Score: 36
The Winning Wine
It was a tie! Both the 2023 Stoneleigh ($16.99) and 2022 13 Celsius ($12.99) received the highest scores (18 points each or 36 points combined Lynn and Scott). Choosing by price, then the 13 Celsius is the best value for exceptional flavor.
Why they won: Both wines had excellent acidity, strong citrus and fruit-forward flavors, and a well-balanced structure. They embodied the crisp, refreshing qualities that make Sauvignon Blanc perfect for a hot summer day.
Interesting Note: Stoneleigh was the only wine that was fully grown, produced, and bottled in New Zealand, while 13 Celsius had its juice imported and bottled in California.
Final Thoughts: Both Lynn and Scott agreed that any of these wines would be enjoyable when served ice cold on a summer day, but Stoneleigh and 13 Celsius stood out as the best expressions of Sauvignon Blanc.
