Wines Unspecified Villa Maria - Reserve Sauvignon Blanc - 2024

Viniou Reviews

Villa Maria’s Cuvée Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2024 from Marlborough, New Zealand, exemplifies the varietal precision and vibrancy that have made this region globally renowned for its Sauvignon Blancs. Crafted exclusively from this aromatic grape, the 2024 vintage benefits from a notably cool yet sunny growing season, allowing for slow ripening and excellent retention of acidity. The Reserve designation suggests a meticulous selection of parcels, and likely some degree of extended lees contact, contributing to the wine’s complexity and textural depth. Expect a crystalline pale colour, pronounced aromatics of passionfruit, grapefruit zest, blackcurrant leaf and elderflower, and a palate that balances exuberant fruit with a taut, mineral backbone. The finish is refreshingly long, with a saline hint that recalls the influence of coastal breezes.

Marlborough, situated at the tip of New Zealand’s South Island, is characterised by its abundant sunshine, cool maritime climate, and wide diurnal temperature ranges. The region’s famed river valleys, dominated by free-draining alluvial soils over gravel, are ideally suited to Sauvignon Blanc. This terroir imparts signature lifted aromatics and a bracing natural acidity. Although relatively young on the world wine map, Marlborough’s reputation for top-tier Sauvignon Blanc is built on a unique synergy between climate, soil and grape, first discovered in the 1970s and now celebrated worldwide.

This style of energetic, aromatic Sauvignon Blanc is a classic partner for fresh seafood, especially Marlborough green-lipped mussels, oysters, or ceviche. The expressive fruit and zesty acidity also complement salads featuring goat’s cheese, asparagus or citrus segments. From regional cuisine, consider pairing it with pan-fried snapper or a summer vegetable risotto with lemon zest. Its herbal undertones make it a lively match for fragrant Thai or Vietnamese dishes, particularly those featuring lemongrass or coriander.

For the best expression, serve well-chilled at 8-10°C. Opt for tulip-shaped white wine glasses to capture the bouquet, and enjoy the wine’s youthful exuberance within the next two years for maximum freshness and vibrancy.