Wines Marlborough No.1 Family Estate - No.1 Cuvée

Viniou Reviews

No.1 Family Estate Cuvée No.1 from Marlborough, New Zealand, is a non-vintage sparkling wine crafted primarily from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and occasionally Pinot Meunier in the classic Méthode Traditionnelle. This technique, mirroring that of Champagne, involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, yielding a fine and persistent stream of bubbles. The wine expresses a fresh bouquet marked by green apple, citrus blossom, and subtle toasted brioche notes, underpinned by a vibrant acidity and a lingering, clean finish. Its youthful exuberance and balance make it an excellent expression of Marlborough’s unique terroir in a sparkling format.

Marlborough stands as New Zealand’s most recognised viticultural region, lauded internationally for its cool climate and luminous daylight hours, both conducive to grape ripening while retaining vital acidity. The soils are typically a mix of alluvial gravels over clay, with good drainage that encourages concentration and intensity in the fruit. The region's viticultural history, although relatively recent compared to Old World counterparts, has been meteoric in its rise since the 1970s, largely thanks to the success of Sauvignon Blanc, but its ability to foster high-quality sparkling wines is increasingly celebrated, as shown by efforts like No.1 Family Estate.

This lively Methode Traditionnelle sparkling wine is a versatile companion at the table. Classic pairings include fresh oysters, scallops lightly seared with lemon and herbs, or a platter of sushi—dishes that echo the wine’s brightness and minerality. For something more substantial, try it with a creamy risotto featuring spring vegetables or with soft cheeses such as brie or camembert. Should you wish to feature regional cuisine, New Zealand green-lipped mussels steamed in white wine would make a superb match.

For optimal enjoyment, serve No.1 Family Estate Cuvée No.1 chilled at 6-8°C. Use a slender flute or a tulip-shaped glass to fully appreciate its aromatic delicacy and fine effervescence. The wine is ready to drink on release but can hold well for a year or two in cool cellaring conditions for those who prefer a touch of bottle maturity.