Wine columnist DENNIS KNILL gives his views on Saint Clair’s range of sauvignon blanc.
At Saint Clair Family Estate, the focus is on family which extends right across the winery. Neal and Judy Ibbotson’s entry onto the wine industry began in 1978 as suppliers of grapes to local wineries.
As time passed, Neal and Judy continued to have a strong desire to showcase their own grapes to making their own wines; however, it wasn’t until 1994 that they decided to produce their own. Their mission was to create world-class wines at an affordable price under the Saint Clair Family Estate label. The land where the vineyard is located was first settled by the Sinclair family, so it seemed appropriate to factor the Sinclair identity into the naming of the winery.
Over the last 30 years, Neal and Judy have developed an in-depth knowledge of viticulture and are recognised as two of Marlborough’s winemaking pioneers. Today, Saint Clair is a household name with numerous local and international wine awards and accolades. The winery is a pleasant place where you can relax and enjoy a delightful lunch over a glass of wine or visit the cellar door for tasting some of the best value for wines in the region.
For lovers of sauvignon blanc, these wines have their own flavours and distinct personalities…
’25 Saint Clair Wairau Reserve sauvignon blanc
RRP $36
A ripe and fruity wine with a fresh and dry crispness that’s long lasting on the palate. This wine ticks all the boxes. Serve with salmon, roast chicken, and pork.
’24 Saint Clair Pioneer Block 1 sauvignon blanc
RRP $33
Elegant and aromatic with intense ripe and fruity flavours that rest nicely on the palate. Best when paired with seafood, ceviche, and summer salads.
’24 Saint Clair James Sinclair sauvignon blanc
RRP $24
Full of citrus and concentrated aromas and a light textured finish that carries right across the palate. Serve with vegetarian dishes, prawns, and shrimps.
‘24 Saint Clair Origin sauvignon blanc
RRP $22
Distinctive aromas with clean concentrated flavours that are rich and crisp adding plenty of excitement to the wine. Team up with roast chicken, smoked salmon, and pasta.
’24 Lake Chalice Plume sauvignon blanc
RRP $45
This classic wine has everything you would expect from Marlborough, intense aromas and a fresh citrus that lingers long on the palate. Pair with seafood, chicken, and pasta.
’24 Lake Chalice The Raptor sauvignon blanc
RRP $29
A well-rounded wine that’s instantly appealing with rich fruity aromas and a ripe bouquet that’s elegantly balanced. Serve with pan fried fish, lobster, and prawns.
’25 Lake Chalice The Falcon sauvignon blanc
RRP $21
Bustling with freshness, light acidity and a distinct fragrance of herbaceous flavours. Don’t be fooled by the price. Team up with a cheese platter, humus, and flat bread.
’25 Lake Chalice The Nest sauvignon blanc
RRP $20
A clean and concentrated wine driven with tropical fruity flavours that are fresh and crisp that lifts the mouth. Pair with salmon, goats cheese with pear and rocket.
