Wines Marlborough Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc 2017 hails from the renowned Marlborough region in New Zealand, a terroir celebrated worldwide for its distinctive expression of Sauvignon Blanc. This varietal, harvested in 2017, offers a pure, vibrant representation of the grape. The winemaking approach at Dog Point typically leans towards minimal intervention, allowing the fruit’s character to shine. Expect a wine with intense aromatics—think passion fruit, lime zest, and elderflower—supported by a firm backbone of crisp acidity. The palate often reveals notes of gooseberry, grapefruit, and a subtle, mineral-driven complexity thanks to the careful vinification and the region's unique terroir.

Marlborough sits at the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island. The region enjoys a cool maritime climate with long sunshine hours and significant diurnal temperature variation, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and develop bright, concentrated flavours while retaining lively acidity. The soils are generally alluvial, with gravel and drainage well-suited to expressing the zingy and highly aromatic style that defines Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Since Sauvignon Blanc’s emergence from Marlborough in the 1980s, the region has become synonymous with world-class examples, marked by their exuberant aromas and freshness.

When considering food pairings, Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc 2017 is delightfully versatile. Its crisp acidity and punchy aromatics make it an excellent companion to fresh seafood—think oysters, green-lipped mussels, or grilled white fish garnished with a herb salsa. Goat cheese, particularly a tangy Crottin de Chavignol, finds a perfect foil in this wine’s lively palate. For a regional touch, try pairing it with New Zealand green shell mussels or a classic fish pie with dill and lemon.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. This allows the aromatics to blossom without masking the delicate fruit and mineral nuances. Pour into medium-sized white wine glasses to capture the bouquet’s lift, and enjoy within the next couple of years to experience its freshness at its peak.