Wines Marlborough Cloudy Bay - Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2023 epitomises the vibrancy and character that have placed Marlborough, New Zealand, on the global wine map. This white wine is crafted exclusively from Sauvignon Blanc grapes, which thrive in the region’s cool, maritime climate. The 2023 vintage bursts with aromatic intensity; expect pronounced notes of passion fruit, gooseberry, lime zest and a delicate herbal undertone. The palate is lively and crisp, offering a refreshing acidity perfectly balanced by a subtle texture gained from partial lees aging. The result is a zesty, elegant wine known for its purity and precision.

Marlborough, situated at the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, benefits from long sunny days, cool nights, and steady ocean breezes. The region’s alluvial soils, made up of gravel, sand, and clay, help drain excessive water while encouraging root systems to dig deep, imparting intense flavour concentration to the grapes. Since the first Sauvignon Blanc vines were planted in the 1970s, Marlborough has enjoyed a meteoric rise, earning a reputation for producing some of the world’s most acclaimed and distinctive Sauvignon Blancs. Cloudy Bay, established in 1985, played a pioneering role in showcasing the region’s unique terroir and expressive style.

When it comes to food pairings, Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2023 excels with fresh, vibrant cuisine. Classic matches include oysters, prawns, or green-lipped mussels, reflecting New Zealand’s coastal bounty. It also harmonises beautifully with goat’s cheese, herbs, and lightly dressed salads. For something more substantial, try pairing with grilled chicken marinated in lemon and thyme, or a zesty Thai green curry. To embrace local flavours, consider New Zealand green-lipped mussels vinaigrette or a fresh seafood platter.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Sauvignon Blanc well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Pour the wine into tulip-shaped glasses to concentrate its aromatic profile, and savour its lively character within two to three years of the vintage to capture its freshness and brightness at their peak.