The Data

Country   New Zealand

Appellation   Marlborough

Varietal   Sauvignon Blanc

Retail Price   $20

ABV   12.6%

Score   4.5 Stars/94 points

In the Glass

Brilliant, pale straw color.

The nose is fresh, vibrant, and complex with scents of kumquat, lime, green apple, and kiwi rising from the glass.

The palate echoes the nose delivering a rich, multilayered fruit core with bright acidity in support that finishes strong with subtle green apple skin notes.

Medium-bodied with perfect balance thanks to a generous dose of bright acidity.

Cool Factor

I love Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Giesen has always been a reliable label, making wines with style and depth.

Value Grade

At $20 it's certainly a fair market price especially when you consider the quality.

Analysis

Marlborough is without a doubt one of the world's premier Sauvignon Blanc appellations. The fruit for this vintage was sourced from two northern Wairau Valley vineyards. This wine was fermented in both stainless steel and wood with both large, rather neutral, large oak Fuders, as well as French barriques. The overall oak impression is quite subtle, which is desired. This is a wonderfully complex wine that also happens to be relatively low in alcohol (under 13%). While it drinks beautifully now this Sauvignon Blanc will develop well with a few years of clearing. 94 points out of 100.

How to Enjoy

This tasty and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc needs nothing but a glass but it's great with roasted chicken, smoked salmon, or pasta with basil pesto.