The Data

Country   New Zealand

Appellation   Marlborough

Varietal   Sauvignon Blanc

Retail Price   $17

ABV   13%

Score   4 Stars/91 points

In the Glass

Brilliant, pale straw color.

The aromatics are ultra fresh and clean offering a clever marriage of citrus zest, grapefruit pulp, and vibrant tropical fruits with wild herbs, mineral, and orange peel.

The palate faithfully follows the nose delivering a bright, citrus focus with layers of grass, herbs, and silky tropical fruits that become more generous as the wine slightly warms.

Medium-bodied with perfect balance with subtle lingering citrus notes.

Cool Factor

I'm always susceptible to the charms of a well-made Kiwi Sauvignon Blanc like the 13 Celsius.

Value Grade

The listed suggested retail price is $17 while a quick scan of retailers around the country shows that this wine often sells for much less, which is good for all of us value buyers.

Analysis

The name 13 Celsius is more than a name, it's a guide to the wine's perfect serving temperature. To help you out the label changes color from gray to blue at precisely 13 degrees Celsius. This would be a gimmick worthy of an eye-roll if the wine in the bottle wasn't so good. The wine hails from Marlborough, arguably the nation's most perfect Sauvignon Blanc appellation. Within Marlborough the grapes are sourced 55% from Wairau Valley and 45% from Awatere Valley. The wine is crafted with a long, cool fermentation that preserves the subtle nuances. It, like most New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, is bottled with a screw-cap closure to ensure freshness. 91 points out of 100.

How to Enjoy

Drink with nothing but a glass for a great aperitif or pair with smoked salmon or shellfish.