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Monkey Bay
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc grapes originated in France, where they are still widely grown today and treated to a wide range of processing practices – from aging in oak barrels, blending with other varietals, and undergoing malolactic fermentation to encourage a more mellow, buttery finish. These green skinned white wine grapes are highly versatile, and are now grown in several countries around the world which have the correct climatic conditions for getting the best results from them. Generally, Sauvignon Blanc varietal grapes prefer a cooler climate, as too much heat dulls the flavor present in the fruit. As such, they are generally grown in valleys and on coastal areas, where they can benefit from cooling breezes before being typically harvested early in the summer. The grapes themselves produce wines which are often very dry and crisp, yet full of a wide range of flavors including grasses, tropical fruits and citrus notes.
Region: Marlborough
On the north-easterly tip of New Zealand's South Island, we find the beautiful region of Marlborough, home to some of the New World's finest white wines and dozens of quality vineyards. The region itself has been producing their award winning white wines – most commonly made with Sauvignon Blanc grapes – in large numbers since the 1970s, and is today widely recognized as being home to some of the best examples of both modern and traditional styles of Sauvignon Blanc wines. The region benefits from its dry and hot climate, and the cooling oceanic breezes which help the grapes there reach full ripeness. One of the key features of the Marlborough region is the fact that whilst the days are generally very hot, the nights are cold, thus allowing the vintners who work in the region to considerably extend the grapes' ripening period and encourage much more expression of flavor and terroir.
Country: New Zealand
New Zealand has consistently impressed over the past few decades, with many proclaiming this southern country as being the 'pearl' of the New World wine locations. One of the key attributes of New Zealand wines is their wonderful fruit-forward flavors, which make them a favorite with newcomers to wine, as they manage to be deliciously drinkable without posing many challenges. That isn't to say there is little complexity or interesting features to their wines, as one can easily discover through the fantastic range of wines available – from smoky and mineral rich Sauvignon Blancs, to juicy and plummy Pinot Noirs and the beautiful Bordeaux style wines sourced from the excellent Auckland region. New Zealand wineries clearly have a dedication to quality alongside quantity, and such zeal and expertise is quickly helping them become established as world leaders in regards to both domestic sales and exported wines.