Wine columnist DENNIS KNILL gives his views on Spy Valley’s sauvignon blanc wines.
Hidden away in the southern valleys of Marlborough is one of New Zealand’s purest wine growing regions.
Spy Valley Wines shares this unique valley with 180 hectares of premium vines that were planted 30 years ago by Bryan and Jan Johnson who had the will and pioneering spirit to work land that was considered too hard, too dry, and too infertile for growing grapes.
Today, they have established one of the most successful family-owned wineries in the country, with a range of award-winning varietals that are exported all around the globe. While their sauvignon blanc will always be worthy of a place in the Kings Court, their riesling, chardonnay, pinot gris, gerwurztraminer, pinot noir, syrah, and methode are as good as anywhere.
With winter on our doorstep and with white wines more suited for this time of the year, Spy Valley’s range of sauvignon blanc wines have everything you would expect to find in a wine bottle.
’24 Satellite by Spy Valley sauvignon blanc
RRP $17
Intense citrus and lively aromatics finely balanced with herbaceous flavours and crisp acidity. An easy-drinking wine. Pair with seafood, shellfish, roast chicken, and leafy salads.
’24 Spy Valley sauvignon blanc
RRP $23
Fresh and aromatic, with a mouth-filling bouquet of concentrated flavours coupled with a dry finish that lingers long on the palate. Serve with pan-fried fish, prawns, scallops, shrimps, and ceviche.
’22 Spy Valley E Block sauvignon blanc
RRP $30
Ripe and fruity, refreshing and finely tuned with distinctive fruity flavours and a soft minerality and texture that will please. Best served with chicken, turkey, pork, and vegetarian dishes.
’21 Spy Valley Envoy sauvignon blanc
RRP $40
Intermingled with tiers of ripe citrus and rich aromas and a smooth bouquet rounded with a gentle splash of acidity. Will take some beating. Pair with fish, chicken, pork, and creamy cheeses.
17 Spy Valley Late Harvest
RRP $35
There will always be a place for dessert wines. This finely balanced rich and sweet wine is captivated with intense citrus that is long and delicious. The perfect ending to an evening meal.
Shop the range at spyvalleywine.co.nz
