Sparkling Wines Marlborough No.1 Family Estate - No.1 Reserve

Viniou Reviews

No.1 Family Estate Cuvée No.1 Reserve is a non-vintage sparkling wine from the Marlborough region of New Zealand. Crafted in the traditional method, this cuvée showcases the meticulous approach of the Le Brun family, whose roots are deeply connected to Champagne in France. Produced primarily from classic Champagne grape varieties—mainly Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and occasionally Pinot Meunier—this Reserve is aged on lees for extended periods to deliver finesse and complexity. The result is a vibrant Blanc de Blancs-style wine with delicate, persistent bubbles, aromas of citrus blossom, freshly baked brioche, green apple, and a subtle hint of toasted almonds, finishing with refreshing acidity and a refined mineral edge.

Marlborough is situated at the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, and it is internationally celebrated for its bright, expressive wines, most famously Sauvignon Blanc. The region benefits from a cool maritime climate, characterised by sunny days, cool nights, and significant diurnal variation, which imparts freshness, elegance, and intensity to the grapes. The stony, free-draining alluvial soils further enhance vibrancy and minerality, making Marlborough an outstanding terroir for sparkling wine production. New Zealand’s winemaking history in Marlborough may be younger than Europe's, but its commitment to innovation and quality is unwavering, with sparkling wines quickly gaining acclaim for their purity and finesse.

This Marlborough sparkling wine is beautifully suited to a variety of food pairings. Its crisp acidity and fine mousse make it an excellent match with fresh seafood such as oysters, smoked salmon blinis, or tempura prawns. It also pairs elegantly with goat cheese, sushi, and delicate poultry dishes like herb-roasted chicken. For a local touch, try it alongside New Zealand green-lipped mussels or a freshly prepared whitebait fritter—a regional favourite that echoes the vibrancy of this cuvée.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well chilled at 6-8°C. Use fine sparkling wine glasses or classic flutes to appreciate its elegant bead and aromatic nuances. If possible, allow the wine a few moments in the glass to open up, which will enhance its complexity and reveal its refined, autolytic character.