Steve Bird
The Whanau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2024 750ml

Tasting Notes

Brilliantly pale straw with subtle green highlights, showcasing exceptional clarity and

youthful vibrancy. An intensely expressive nose, layered and complex. Classic

Marlborough aromatics of passionfruit, kaffir lime, and gooseberry leap from the

glass, underpinned by nuances of elderflower, and flinty minerality. Hints of white

nectarine and lemongrass emerge with aeration, adding depth and intrigue. The palate

is finely textured and beautifully balanced, displaying hallmark varietal purity. Juicy

citrus and tropical fruit—think grapefruit, and ripe pineapple,—are framed by a taut

spine of saline acidity. The finish is long, precise, and refreshingly dry, with lingering

notes of lime zest and crushed herbs

Vinification

Fruit is harvested in the cool of the morning and gently pressed to minimise phenolic

pickup. The juice undergoes cold settling before being split for fermentation—

primarily in stainless steel to retain aromatic purity. Lees stirring is employed postferment

to build mouthfeel, and the wine is aged on fine lees for up to five months

before blending and bottling. No malolactic fermentation is conducted, ensuring

bright acidity and freshness are maintained.

The Vintage

The 2024 growing season in Marlborough was marked by near-perfect viticultural

conditions, setting the stage for an exceptional Sauvignon Blanc vintage. A warm, dry

spring led to excellent flowering and fruit set, while the summer months were

characterised by long sunlit days tempered by cool maritime breezes. Crucially, the

ripening period into late March and early April was extended by cool, dry nights,

preserving vibrant natural acidity and enhancing flavour concentration. Minimal

rainfall reduced disease pressure, ensuring pristine clean fruit.

Food Match

A versatile gastronomic partner. Exceptional with freshly shucked oysters, seared

scallops with citrus beurre blanc, or a goat cheese and asparagus tart. For a local

match, pair with Marlborough green-lipped mussels in a white wine and herb broth.

Also complements Thai green curry or sushi with wasabi and yuzu accents.