Renowned for its high sunshine hours, cool ocean breezes, low rainfall, free-draining soils, and sandy loam deposits, Marlborough ranks alongside the very best.
World famous for its sauvignon blanc, the region is now also becoming a hot spot for chardonnay and pinot noir.
Located in the Brancott and Omaka Valleys, Dog Point Vineyards is one of the oldest and largest certified organic wineries in Marlborough. Founded by Ivan and Margaret Sutherland, they later teamed up with James and Wendy Healy prior to producing their first vintage in 2004.
The name Dog Point dates to the early 1850s European settlements. Back then there were 57 sheep stations spread over more than a million acres of land. With no fences, boundary riders used dogs to protect the sheep from the marauding packs of wild dogs that camped at Dog Point. But that was not the only problem, for as the farming grew so did the rabbit population, making the land worthless.
The stations eventually disappeared and the State divided Marlborough into 550 properties for growing barley, wheat, vegetables, and livestock. In 1973 the first grapes were planted, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Here are four of Dog Point’s great wines I hope you will enjoy.
’21 Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc
RRP $29
An in-form classic dry white that’s full of ripe citrus and a light rich textured finish that lingers on the palate. Best teamed with fish, seafood, ceviche, summer salads, vegetarian, and Asian dishes. Excellent buying at this price.
’19 Dog Point Section 94
RRP $45
This sensational full-bodied expressive sauvignon blanc has been crafted with distinctive herbaceous flavours balanced with freshness, acidity, and intensity. Serve with fish, lobster, prawns, chicken, pork, and summer salads.
’19 Dog Point Chardonnay
RRP $45
Styled to capture the essence of Marlborough, this crisp, finely balanced wine carry’s depth, and an intense richness of citrusy flavours right across the palate. Best served with fish, scallops, shrimps, roast chicken, pork, and cheese.
’19 Dog Point Pinot Noir
RRP $55
Pure and ruby bright from an established vineyard, this youthful and refreshing well-rounded pinot is influenced with natural earthy flavours and fine tannins. Pair with venison, lamb, pork, duck, pasta, and casseroles. Worth cellaring.
