🇳🇿

Sauvignon Blanc redefined

Marlborough

New Zealand

Region Details

Climate

Cool, maritime, high sunshine hours

Soil

Stony alluvial, clay

Varietals

4 key grapes

Sub-regions

3 areas

Wine styles

Aromatic whitesElegant redsSparkling

Key varietals

Sauvignon BlancPinot NoirChardonnayPinot Gris

Wine Heritage

History of Marlborough

🇳🇿
"Sauvignon Blanc redefined"

Commercial winemaking began in Marlborough in 1973 with Montana (now Brancott Estate). By the 1980s, Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc had become a global phenomenon, spawning countless imitators but never truly equaled.

About Marlborough

Marlborough changed the world's perception of Sauvignon Blanc, creating a bold, aromatic style that became instantly recognizable. Its cool climate and intense sunlight produce wines of exceptional vibrancy and purity.

Terroir

The Wairau Valley's long, cool growing season allows grapes to develop intense aromatics while retaining acidity. Stony soils force vines to work hard, concentrating flavors. The Awatere Valley adds complexity with even cooler conditions.

Flavor Profile

Passionfruit
defining
Grapefruit
prominent
Herbaceous
prominent
Gooseberry
subtle
Zesty acidity
defining

Sub-regions

Wairau Valley

Sauvignon Blanc heartland, classic

Awatere Valley

Cooler, leaner, mineral

Southern Valleys

Diverse, emerging, complex