Rimapere, Plot 101 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand 2021

We all now know just what a fine natural fit Sauvignon and the various districts and sub-regions of Marlborough are: varietal style and the exuberance which comes with the South Island's bright light and clean air are never in doubt. Looking for the grain and complexity which will take each wine a little further is the great challenge, but it was one our judges felt this wine met. Bright green-gold in colour, its aromas are haunting, layered and subtle, without overt grassiness or passionfruit extravagance; look instead for the soft leafiness of a sunlit copse in spring. It's fresh, bright and urgent on the palate, but once again the primary notes are muted to benefit texture and perspective, sinew and line. The memorable acids are rounded, ripe and resonant in this wholly successful Sauvignon.

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