Sauvignon Blanc
75cl * Vegan & Organic * 14% ABV * Marlborough, New Zealand
Marlborough’s Dog Point is a partnership between viticulturalist Ivan Sutherland and winemaker James Healy, both formerly of Cloudy Bay. After leaving Cloudy Bay the pair began making wine from fruit sourced from Sutherland’s own vineyards in the Wairau Valley. They’re now one of the very few producers in Marlborough to grow their own grapes as well as making the wine, which gives them more control over the whole process. They also hold the largest organic vineyard area in New Zealand, selling 70% of the fruit and only keeping the very best for themselves.
The 'Section 94' is a serious, full-bodied Sauvignon Blanc that shows just how layered and age-worthy the variety can be. Drawn from a single parcel within Dog Point’s home vineyard in Marlborough, the fruit is hand-picked from low-yielding vines planted in 1992, then whole-bunch pressed, naturally fermented, and aged for 18 months in seasoned French oak. The result is a poised, structured Sauvignon Blanc that drinks beautifully now but will continue to evolve over the next few years.
The wine opens with subtle notes of flint and chalky minerality, followed by ripe citrus, pear and hints of honeydew melon. On the palate, vibrant acidity provides focus and drive, carrying flavours of grapefruit and lemon alongside a subtle smokiness. Extended ageing on lees in older French oak adds a nutty complexity to the finish. Excellent with salmon, roast or grilled poultry, and soft white cheeses.
Layers of crushed stones, smoked almonds, green apples, lemon pith, white pepper, liquorice and oyster shells. It's so powerful and concentrated. Tightly wound and phenolic with a medium body and sharp acidity. Intense, and just keeps going. Always a sophisticated and complex sauvignon blanc. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. 95 pts, James Suckling (2022)