What Makes Marlborough the Perfect Place to Grow
Sauvignon Blanc
A MAJESTIC MIX OF SOIL, SEA AND SKY
There may be no more perfect a match for Sauvignon Blanc than Marlborough, New Zealand. With distinctive notes of fresh-cut greens, tropical fruit, zesty citrus and a crisp, clean finish, Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc has gained worldwide acclaim for its incredible quality and singular distinctiveness.
What is it that makes Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc so special? It’s the majestic mix of soil, sea and sky that can be found nowhere else on earth.
Located in the northeastern corner of New Zealand’s South Island (or the “Top of the South,” as the locals say), Marlborough is both incredibly beautiful and beautifully diverse.
This rich, lush valley is nestled between mountain ranges to the north and southwest and the stunning Pacific Coast to the east. Glittering braided rivers bend and wind through the valley toward Marlborough’s crystal blue bays, giving grape growers a diverse array of soils, elevations and microclimates in which to grow their wines.
At the height of the growing season, blankets of vibrant green vines dot the landscape, the sun reflecting off the distant mountains that jut high into the clear, fresh blue sky. Protected by these mountain ranges, Marlborough is known for its abundant warm sun (regularly earning itself the title of “sunniest spot in New Zealand”) and chilly nights cooled by coastal breezes.
These are ideal conditions for growing grapes of rich, luscious maturity (giving us Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc’s signature notes of tropical passion fruit and guava) while also preserving the crisp, refreshing zest of acidity (contributing the bright citrus character you taste in the wines). The intensity of the summer sun and dramatic temperature drop at night also results in one of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc’s most celebrated qualities: its incredibly concentrated aromas and flavors.
Part of what makes Marlborough so special are the people. This is a culture that embraces the refreshing, laid-back New Zealand lifestyle and hospitality. Guests are greeted with a warm welcome and a friendly smile, treated as friends. With the abundance of nature at their doorstep, people here find rejuvenation and renewal with a good hike into the hills or by visiting the coast for fresh-caught seafood and a swim or a sail among the waves.
