New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc Marathon!

New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc Marathon! – Episode #390

January 21, 2008

Gary gets serious and goes through a bunch of NZ sauv blancs!

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Comments on this episode(219) Leave a comment ›

“QOTD: I havent had enough to really answer that, but I did have a Vil…” by Dessert Wine Nerd
“Best SB I had while I was in NZ (and I had quite a few) was Mount Rile…” by Charlie
View all 219 ›

Wines tasted in this episode:

2007 Arona Sauvignon BlancNew Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
2006 Tohu Sauvignon BlancNew Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
2007 New Harbor Sauvignon BlancNew Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
2007 Chasing Venus Sauvignon BlancNew Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
2006 Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc IconNew Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
2006 Discovery Sauvignon BlancNew Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
2007 Kim Crawford Sauvignon BlancNew Zealand Sauvignon Blanc

219 Responses

January 21, 2008

Chris Barnes
OMG OMG, I made it first
January 21, 2008

josh in burgundy
2nd whoo hoo!!!
January 21, 2008

kool booy
#3 !
January 21, 2008

Pablo Lastorta
3rd one’s the charmer!
January 21, 2008

MagnumGourmet
3rd…Woo Hoo!
January 21, 2008

Pablo Lastorta
I guess 4th by a hair!
January 21, 2008

GregStefos
Still within 10, so I’m happy.
January 21, 2008

Jonathan
Good luck Giants…….. you are realllllly going to need it!!!

go pats!
January 21, 2008

David Dickinson
Top 10
January 21, 2008

Susan
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January 21, 2008

Susan
January 21, 2008

Susan
January 21, 2008

nougat
Great, just bought a bottle of the Arona without knowing anything about it. Glad it doesn’t suck!
January 21, 2008

crank
I’m in, and pumped. My love some NZ SB.
January 21, 2008

manual
what?
January 21, 2008

Danny
top 20?!?! this looks like a good episode.
January 21, 2008

KAHUNA
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ- wake me when you taste some real wine- stupid Jets fan
January 21, 2008

Rajiv A.
Top 20! and it’s the first time I’ve checked today. Honest!
January 21, 2008

Alos
Have not had enough to have one sorry
January 21, 2008

Neil
QOTD: Villa Maria.

Go Giants!
January 21, 2008

Dr T from N. Carolina
Interesting show, as usual

“T”
January 21, 2008

tarheel17
QOTD: Babich. I had it years ago and it was fantastic. I’d like to revisit it, now that I know a bit more about wine, to see how much I like it now.
Great show! Good work! Keep it up! We love it!
January 21, 2008

cruster
*yikes*
The video file of this episode is almost 200MB large. I don’t think this is a good idea. The video is much more smoother, but my browser collapses after loading all the stuff into memory.
I have to download the *.mov to watch this.
January 21, 2008

ceewats
fernleaf
January 21, 2008

AVP
QOTD: Well I had Matua for the first time last Saturday and truly liked it. An all time favorite to be, perhaps.. At least Cloudy Bay is nowadays too expensive. Jackson Estate’s an favorite.
January 21, 2008

GrapeStuff
QOTD: Dunno
January 21, 2008

C. Jurczak
Anyone else think this episode looks different??? Or is it just me…I can’t quite put my finger on it, but almost like its a different camera…Or it was encoded differently???
January 21, 2008

Martini
The last memorable one I had was the Gladstone (Wairarapa). Marlborough SB has gotten B-O-R-I-N-G lately.
January 21, 2008

Arthur
Preach it Rev. Gary!

I always say that understanding wine is about being a good observer and not about being endowed with super-human sensory abilities.
January 21, 2008

DT
GV:

Good show with practical advice. Seems you liked the 2007s better than the 2006s overall – could be the year or just more bottle age on the 2006s.

QOTD: Dog Point (regular bottling).
January 21, 2008

purplejuicebruce
QOTD…sorry not a fan of grapefruit cut grass or cat pee
January 21, 2008

Robin C
QOTD: Cloudy Bay, though I haven’t had it in a long time because it’s so expensive.
I’ve never heard of Chasing Venus or Arona. I’d love to try something new.
January 21, 2008

Arthur
cjurczak:

I think its a matter of compression. The video is a huge file b/c its a long ep. I get digital rastering this when I try to get a long file to fit within a size requirement.
January 21, 2008

Dominus
Well, at least one “Manning” made it to the SB though the wrong one! Geez, the Cheats will kick their butts. Good show.

QOTD: It’s gotta be Cloudy Bay circa ‘96? since I’m old school and remember that first “sniffy sniff” and most recently I enjoyed a Matua. Quite nice.

Cheers!

P.S. How ’bout a show on Alsatian wines? Rieslings, Gewurtz, Pinot Gris. I plan on taking a “wine trip” to Strasbourg in May.
January 21, 2008

KVolk
QOTD: Haven’t tried one yet I am not to big on the whites to begin with but if give the opportunity for some I might try.

Way to flex the wine tasting muscles today Gary. I like you poping more bottles and giving us the benefit of your thoughts.
January 21, 2008

sharon
Can’t say as I like any of them. I do use them for braising poultry, though.
January 21, 2008

Syrahhhhhhhhh
GVNC,

I hear a loud digital THUD in New Zealand after that show. There was no thunder today for the SBs. That’s been my overall take, too. For the same money, I’d go Oregon Pinot Gris or even Viognier. For $10 US bones how about the MonteNovo Godello from Spain. Not feeling the NZ from you…
January 21, 2008

Tstank
I love the chasing venus. My ex girlfriend (Venus) and I used to drink that a lot. She liked it but didn’t think it was as funny as I did. Note: Cool beans you did a lot of wines but I think you lose some energy when you got to wine 5 maybe that is the limit of wines to review in one sitting.
January 21, 2008

Dave in Leverkusen
QOTD: Seresin

Other favs include Kim Crawford (and you don’t want to know what it costs here in Germany!), Nautilus, Stoneleigh and Babich.

Go Giants; beat the Cheats!
January 21, 2008

Corvette Tony
Gary,
Here are some other number for you: 10 – Fran Tarkenton, 11 – Phil Simms, 12 – k, 14 – Y.A. Tittle

QOTD: Haven’t had a lot of NZ Sauvignon Blancs but I did enjoy the last one – Allan Scott 2006.
January 21, 2008

*/^_^\*
qotd: dunno. only had one. it had a green monkey or lizard or something on the front. delicious at first, lost some zip on the second day. i’m guessing that’s typical of whites….
January 21, 2008

Andrew
Hey Gary

Good show

QOTD: Probably ‘Villa Maria’, but I’ve been drinking a bit of ‘Dog Point’ at a favourite local restaurant recently and enjoying it.

AND I ALWAYS EAT KIWI FRUIT WITH THE SKIN ON – the texture is fantastic and the tartness awesome and it’s ten times easier – also a bit of a fan of strawberry tops, a nice touch of peppermintiness.

Cheers Andrew
January 21, 2008

BruceP
QOTD: Don’t have one. Tasted it quite a few times. None of it was memorable enough to ever note. Not really my thing, as they say.
January 21, 2008

OttawaB
Fav NZ SB is St. Clair 2006 Sauvignon Blanc ………… followed closely by Highfield Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2006
January 21, 2008

Harley Stan
WOW that a lot of wine in one episode!
QOTD- No memorable NZ Sauv Blancs in my journal, just one from Chile that I really liked.
January 21, 2008

KAllardNYC
Sunday Mountain.

Why is it not carried in the Lib anymore? No ‘06 or ‘07.

The Shadow
January 21, 2008

RANDI
QOTD: hhmmmm….I dont know, but I can tell you that I have 2 bottles of Nobilo (2007) waiting for me..and now I dont care!

Great episode Gary. I watched earlier with my Dad….he loves whites and the Jets..so he immediately took you for a GENIUS!
January 21, 2008

Mikie C
qotd: Omaka Springs – Not rated as high as some, but I really like it with summer salads. Mellow times when I tried it, so good memories come with it…

qogv: “Smell, taste, think for a minute or two … and then text yourself if you like it.”

Great advice, gv. I like it when you pontificate and give your commentary – it rounds out the show for me. It’s comments like these that push me to try new things and to think about it. Thanks, man!
January 21, 2008

KyBoy
QOTD: A few years ago Omaka Springs really got me pumped about New Zealand Sauv. Blancs…so for sentimental value, I’ll say Omaka Springs. They’re getting pricey though.
January 21, 2008

Canadian Chris
QOTD: Oyster Bay. Nice, clean, refreshing.
January 21, 2008

BenF
GV great show I don’t think i have a favorite NZ SB. But i will have to pick one up…
January 21, 2008

amgryger
QOTD: I don’t really have a favorite because I have only had one, which was the Villa Maria.
January 21, 2008

SoCal
QOTD: So far all I have had is the Kim Crawford…….but I have had so South African SB’s that are good……
January 21, 2008

Boog
QOTD: I’ve only had Cloudy Bay and I thought it was VERY good.
January 21, 2008

wwave
I read a few comments that didn’t seem to jazzed on the NZ SB’s. I must say, it is not my favorite category, but it has its place on a very hot day.

QOTD- Nautilus. I love Loire whites, and you must provide the minerals to intrigue me from NZ.
January 21, 2008

Kev and Ams
QOTD: I still haven’t met one I would go back too on a regular basis.
January 21, 2008

Mark H
2007 Dog Point, worth every penny, and every second of the acid reflux that follows.
January 21, 2008

yowens
QOTD: Huia or Seresin
January 21, 2008

David Dadekian
QOTD: Not sure I want to call anything my favorite all-time, but I had a 2006 Craggy Range on Christmas Eve that was outstanding and I would love to drink again.
January 21, 2008

JonE
Where’s the freakin legendary Cloudy Bay?? Don’t you think grapefruit and cat pee would make a great martini?

QOTD: 2005 Allen Scott SB. great time with that wine.
January 21, 2008

Rajiv A.
Question: When you say “razor-sharp”, do you mean high acidity? a clean acidic finish? focused aromas?

Can a wine be razor sharp and yet complex?

QOTD: Never tried a NZ Sauv Blanc. I have tried one Sancerre: an 06 Carrou. It was pricey ($13/half). I was puzzled because I got no grapefruit/grass (save a hint) and mostly nuttiness. It smelled good, but one-dimensional. It was dry, but really creamy on the palate – good body. I wondered if it was oaked, it was so creamy. They said it wasn’t though. Hopefully the next one will have some mineral qualities.

Liked the rant about paying attention to the wine. It made me think about how I’m doing with refining my tasting. It seems like my learning happens in leaps and bounds – I’ll be in the same place for a while, then I’ll finally be able to pay attention to a new aspect of the experience. Take the midpalate aromatics – I just copied your “bird sounds” for a while, though I couldn’t quite focus on the flavors, then one day I really got a good “whiff” of the wine while it was in the mouth, and a lightbulb clicked! Learning to taste wine is like learning to write with your toes – we’re just not used to using our nose and palate that way!

One thing I never do, however, is look at the wine first. I don’t want to bias my taste/smell, since we tend to rely on sight more than the other two. Also, my dear friend with whom I usually taste is blind, so I feel it’s partly out of respect to her. Which reminds me. Huge props to Michel Chapoutier for the braille labels! That is one trend that should really be spreading to more wineries.
January 21, 2008

ScottG
QOTD: Not being a big white wine fan, I discovered NZ Sauv. Blanc just a few years ago. I like Nobilo Regional Collection (the less expensive ones). I like the 2004 the best, followed by 2005 then 2006 (hope that’s not a trend). It’s a great wine for a warm, sunny Northwest summer day.
January 21, 2008

Dave Canada
BIg line up!
QOTD – Probably Kim Crawford…….don’t drink that many. I am the guy who drinks them mostly in summer….. I know…I am working on it!
January 21, 2008

ScottG
Forgot one thing on earlier post…A good read is Eric Arnold’s First Big Crush–about a year in NZ with Allan Scott. It’s pretty raunchy, but I liked the detail he provides about everything from how they decide what canes to prune to the actual making of the wine.
January 21, 2008

Senator
QOTD: Probably the 2006 Silver Birch.
January 21, 2008

Grapestompper (Dave)
Good episode but I am very deficient in my Sauvgnon Blanc tasting. I have to make a concerted effort to try more.

QOTD: Don’t think I’ve ever even had one from NZ. I have a project now.
January 21, 2008

Bonzo
Mahi 2006! Razor sharp!! Also, Allan Scott 2005, but not quite as much.
January 21, 2008

HungryChuck
wow GV you’re all “grassed” out!….. qotd 2004 White Haven – Had a unique peach nose – grass in the background and a nice citrus finish….
January 21, 2008

Andrew H.
QOTD: Still fairly new and unfortunately I haven’t had an opportunity to try a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc yet. Will definitely try soon.
January 21, 2008

RieslingRon
QOTD: So far, Babich is my favorite. I have a Cloudy Bay in the cooler that I haven’t had yet.

I’m definately in favor of these episodes with a good selection of similar wines. Keep up the good work.

GO….G-MEN
January 21, 2008

Kirk
QOTD: I would have to say that beyond any other that I have ever had…the 2005 Matua Pareti Estate Sauvignon Blanc was spectacular. It was very precise and was the first Sauvignon Blanc to really turn my head from New Zealand. My first Sauvignon Blanc from America that tripped my trigger was Patricia Green.
January 21, 2008

BobbyTiger
Unfortunately not a Sauv Blanc fan. Actually, not much of a white wine drinker. Could probably count the bottles drunk on two hands. No…..make that three or four fingers. I did purchase a couple of bottles of torrontes today based on last weeks show, but was unable to find a bonarda. I do know I need to expand into the whites, and by golly, I’m gonna try. Having said this, I did enjoy, as always, the show.
January 21, 2008

Anthony L.
Not much of a Sauvignon Blanc fan, but always willing to give it another chance. Gary, thanks for recording an episode that airs when you are out of the office. Keep the daily fixes coming.
January 21, 2008

Taylor
Big monday Yeah PATS!!!!
QOTD Havent had loads but cloudy bay is decent and Allen Scott i feel does a nice job
January 21, 2008

Sonnenuhr
Great show – love the marathons!

QOTD – I really love NZ SB. Enjoyed the 2006 Kim Crawford but the 2006 Mahi was tops. Have a case of the 2007 Mahi, very good but not quite as good as the 2006.
January 21, 2008

GottaGoDrink
Thanks for tasting all the SBs so we don’y have to!

QOTD- Sunday Mountain. Fab QPR. Where was it today, Gary?
January 21, 2008

Hotshot162
QOTD: Babich, the nose of this SB’s was just awesome!! Just had this the other day, definitely will go back for more!!
January 21, 2008

Ernest_G
QOTD: Not really had one that I could remember. Not much of a white wine drinker. BUT. . .I will be trying out a few from this episode, the next time I roll into the wine store.

GG, GV.
January 21, 2008

Jonathan
Hi Gary

Hey … I live in New Zealand, and these great wines cost MORE here in NZ than in the US!!!!!

Reckon I will have to move countries to get a ‘priced right’ taste of home.
January 21, 2008

Eric J
From the wines that you tasted today I’ve only tried the Kim Crawford & Nobilo. Between these the Kim Crawford tends to be a good standby for me. As you said nothing astounding however it’s availability makes it easy to have as a standby. Although I mostly drink them in the summer I’m definitly going to be expanding my NZ SB horizons to see what else is out there.
January 21, 2008

Kristen
Nice episode today- I could barely see you over the wine bottles at points! And where were the gooseberry flavors in the wines? It seems like every time I have a NZ Sauv Blanc, I always smell that!

QOTD: I like most NZ Sauv Blancs, but I like Whitehaven 2006. Just had it the other day, so that’s what I remember most.
January 21, 2008

Micha
QOTD: I was quit impressed by the 2007 Saint Clair Estate Sauvignon Blanc, NZ. Its toned down a little bit, more refined and perfectly balanced. And even German SB can bring the thunder, esp. the SB from Markus Schneider, Pfalz.
January 21, 2008

michelle
Just watching you taste these gave me a craving for sushi…
QOTD: Monkey Bay is good and affordable for everyday, Cloudy Bay also excellent but more expensive.
January 21, 2008

Mario Salas
QOTD: I have always dug the Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc for its crispness and good flavors of grapefruit and dry grass.
January 21, 2008

Billr
That was a lot of wine to taste in under 23…WOW

QOTD: I never have had one…….
January 21, 2008

Mazzman
QOTD: Sacred Hill – good stuff (like Cloudy Bay at lower price point)
January 21, 2008

Fred Liu
Great solid episode. I love this, no-doubtly.
Nice Monday.

QOTD:Not a one. As the Newzealand Sauvignon Blanc generally sells at some stupid 20-30 USD price range in my country for no reason…That is life…What else can I say…So, maybe I should be a trader myself, sell some NZ Sav Blanc at some 10-15 USD price range and make some profit…Shouldn’t I?
January 21, 2008

tuscanbob
2006 Matua Valley Sauvignon Blanc Paretai…I was not a fan at all of Matua’s regular bottling from this year but the Paretai (with the whale tail on the label) is OUTSTANDING.
January 21, 2008

Rani Haykal
Great Show!!!

QOTD: Never really had a New Zealand SB. If I am going to drink a wine in that category, Ill usually pick up a Sancerre.

–RH
January 21, 2008

dz
I’ve grown attached to the Villa Maria 2006 S.B., readilly available on wine lists and under $10 at Vons; never dissapoints. If I want something a little more serious I’ll go for a Loire Valley S.B.
January 21, 2008

NathanN
QOTD: Mahi 2006 was OK. Just haven’t found a sauv blanc that I have really enjoyed
January 21, 2008

E
The Martinborough SB I had at Catch 35 in Chicago; I forget exactly what it was, but it reminded me of what a great Sancerre must be like.

But yeah, I’d still rather go to the Loire probably. Boring ain’t I.
January 21, 2008

SacramentoKrista
QOTD: Just started drinking some NZ Sauv. Blancs, and thought the ‘06 Kim Crawford was great! Much better than the ‘07. Can’t wait to try some from this episode!
K– :O)
January 21, 2008

streamertyer
QOTD: Have had some stunning Kim Crawfords, Nobilos and Spy Valley’s, but most consistent is probably Babich and Selaks.
January 21, 2008

Shadowbird
QOTD: Haven’t had any.
January 21, 2008

Glenn James
Gary, Thanks for the show, just the pick-up I needed as I mourn my Chargers loss.
QOTD- The 2006 Babich SB tripped my trigger.
January 21, 2008

downtnmark
Wow, it seems like the New Zealand edge over Napa is starting to shrink.

QOTD: Sorry. I have not yet tried a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. I don’t have friends that drink white wines so I don’t get the chance. The Napa SB’s that I have enjoyed include: Provenance, St. Clement, Whitehall Lane, and Caymus. (I try these while wine tasting in Napa.)
January 21, 2008

andy
my favorite sauvignon blanc from New Zealend is Nobilo.
January 21, 2008

CoolHandLuke
I had a Spyvalley that I enjoyed.
January 21, 2008

markie
saint clair vicar-acid /w/ a burst of fresh mineral water in your mouth @ 11.99-it is an amazing wine /w/ oysters/mussels
January 21, 2008

glenn
No NYG love???

dude?
January 21, 2008

Monica J
QOTD–The 2006 Silver Birch. I bought it at target, because the bottle was “cute”. What can I say, I am a sucker for marketing!
January 21, 2008

Jim Sargent
QOTD: I love the 06 Matua Valley.
January 21, 2008

KODI
Great show!

We are a big NZ SB drnking family and waver between (cheapest to most expensive) Brancott, Amaka Springs, Kim crawford and just recently found a great new one that is better than all of them (or maybe it is just a little different)… Wild Rock!
January 21, 2008

Mike Z
I had a 2000 or 2001 (can’t remember which) Cloudy Bay several years ago… it was lovely. I like NZ Sauv. Blanc a lot, but I go more for the Loire stuff these days; it’s less overpowering.
January 22, 2008

Rob Csenar
QOTD: Matua – from Marlborough like a lot of others. $8 at Costco. A great value and a fun crisp effort.
January 22, 2008

Cookiedds
How about trying something new, try spitting off screen like a cherubic fountain instead of in a bucket. Maybe have a big blue plastic wading pool on the floor……..or into a shopvac hose.
January 22, 2008

Eric
Nice episode Gary, I love these marathon shows.

qotd: Haven’t had one, but i picked up a Two Angels Sauv Blanc at costco that I really liked. I was lucky enough to find another almost 3 months later. A little pricey at $14, but still a good bottle.
January 22, 2008

Dodger Blue
QOTD: 05 Matua valley paretai estate series and 05 Isabel SB. Loved it.
I was a big fan of NZ SB 2 years ago. Now I’m more into Loire Valley white.
I just had 07 Drylands SB the other day and it was just…O.K.
January 22, 2008

Moselman
NZSB, no thanks. Only tried a couple, both quite forgettable. But I’ll look for a couple of those from this show, as well as compare a couple of other Honourable Mentions I’ve seen lately: Babich and Villa Maria. Looking for the so-far elusive NZ unique taste. Have to up my price range a bit, I guess. OK, as I’m looking at going South Beach (cholesterol problem), so will go for substituting quantity with quality (here’s hoping).

Couldn’t twig to how Manning was tied to SauvBlanc. I wonder if the _other_ SB will become an acquired taste â€“ highly unlikely. Anyway, GO GIANTS – win it for Sam Huff (what was his number, Gary?)
January 22, 2008

Yoni Rabkin
Link it up Mott Ts!
January 22, 2008

Triple_J
QOTD: Jackson Estate is the best Sauv Blanc I’ve ever had. A little pricey though, so I usually reach for an Oyster Bay (second fav).
January 22, 2008

Withnail
Not a category I enjoy but I liked the episode.
January 22, 2008

TGSnyd
You seem very concerned about the price of the wines, just try to enjoy them for what they are, it’s not like seventeen bones really amounts to much. I will admit I am a fan of Kim Crawford, and if you can find a better NZ SB for less, then let me know. You can find a good NZ Sauv. Blanc for $11, but I have yet to try one that I like as much. GREEN MaCHINE, not quite ripe lime, green lemons, green green extra-green grass, not that’s some good grass!
January 22, 2008

Panoca
QOTD: huge fan of the New Zeland S.B. My favorite till last year was Kim Crawford. Specially the 06. the new 07 is way inferior. All tried most of the brands and right now i stick to Babich 06 or Drylands 07. Really Good stuff.
January 22, 2008

ev
qod———-Brancott Reserve from about 4 years ago, I’m guessing 2002
January 22, 2008

ev
I forgot, the Matua I really enjoyed, and as I remember was $10-11. Regular Nobilo, by far the worst
January 22, 2008

Oregon Jim
Qotd ‘05 Dog Point is the pinnacle of my NZ SB experience. I will try some of the labels the other Vayniacs are throwing down. I also have had the the last few vintages of Kim Crawford and found the ‘06 to be good, but it absolutely needs food because the acidity can really take your little tastebuds out on a date and bring them home sans underwear.
January 22, 2008

Ondra
Gary, when talking about sauvignon blanc, the best description of its aromatic profile is “nettle”. I almost felt you were searching for the exact component besides the usual “grass” and “grapefruit”. (I have no idea how common is this flower in the US but it is everywhere in Europe.) The French word for “nettle” is “ortie”, the spanish is “ortiga”, and it is “ÐºÑ€Ð°Ð¿Ð¸Ð²Ð°” in Russian.
January 22, 2008

agentorange
GV: First time post. Been watching for about 4 months.

QOTD: Love the NZSB. Giesen must produce a billion cases, which is good, ’cause I just might try and drink them all.
January 22, 2008

misswinegirl
qotd – Just had Wairau NZ SB and it was great. Kim Crawford is always a sure bet. Also liking Crossroads and Matua!

Just bought 18 bottles of SB from you over the holidays. Still enjoying them all! I will be doing a wine tasting with them at a wedding reception this weekend! I can’t wait!
January 22, 2008

JasonA
Back to being blocked at work again. Has been since Late Dec. And no trips to the parents lately to sponge off there high speed internet. So I basically read the replies to the shows and try to guess at the QOTD by there answers.

But I saw marathon and was thinking. Gary is tasting 26.2 NZ Sauvignon Blancs????? Sorry, training for my 2nd marathon so stuck on that whole 26.2 miles thing. But there did see there are plenty tasted here though.

So for QOTD, I have not had a NZ Sauvignon Blanc yet. I think I may have tasted two or 3 at a big wine tasting even last fall, but they were californians as far as I could remember. Still really big into reds with the cold weather here lately though.

Thanks again for your shows though Gary. Keep up the good work!!

jason
January 22, 2008

J Crazy
QOTD: I’m going to be honest and say it was the Cloudy Bay from I think 2001 or 2.
I know you’re not a big fan of Cali Sauv’s but I know you liked the Turnbull Cab, have you had the SB? I quite liked it.

Psst…where is that “LINK IT UP, MOTT” T????!?!?!
January 22, 2008

Andy
QOTD– I guess it would be The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc …. always a well made wine.. Good wine with fresh shellfish (steamed,boiled,or baked)
January 22, 2008

GalvezGuy
QOTD – 2006 Drylands SB – Classic fresh cut grass and grapefruit, laser acidity and tropical flavors (guava, pineapple) lush and heavy on the mouth for an SB without being sugared. Oh yeah, it was 10 bones.
January 22, 2008

Jayhitek
QOTD: Can’t remember the name. But it was damn good!
January 22, 2008

Christopher J
Never had a SB from NZ. Good show, I will have to put it on my ‘things to try’ list.
January 22, 2008

MB Dallas
QOTD: Lately, I’ve been liking the Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc (non Icon). It is nice at under $10. First drank this at a local place that makes great NY style pizza, and enjoyed the pairing.
January 22, 2008

italianwinelover
Wow lots of wines today! Made my head spin!!!! KEWL!

QOTD: Not a big fan of Sav Blanc but I did enjoy an Oyster Bay before. Grassy, grapefruit & cat pee all in one!
January 22, 2008

KingLurker
Thanx for the ep. very informative
January 22, 2008

Kevin C
QOTD: My first Kim Crawford 2002 Marlborough SB sold for about $8 back then. Liked it a lot and had heard how great Cloudy Bay was, so went out and forked over $17 and the Crawford was better at half the price. Love NZ SB and drink a lot throughout the summer
January 22, 2008

medo
Very goof show Gary! I love NZ SB, but I think Leyda Valley in Chile is bringing some serious thunder as well!

QOTD: 2006 Saint Clair Pioneer Block 4 SB !
January 22, 2008

Bernhard_K
QOTD: Sorry I have never tried one; But soon I will have the chance cause In 10 days I am flying to New Zealand… Yeah looking forward to it!!!
January 22, 2008

MtnCharlie
Nice marathon tasting episode.

QOTD: Most recent NZSB that I can remember is the Kim Crawford. My memory of it was that it was a tropical fruit and flower bomb. It made a really great addition to white sangria and added a lot of aroma to it.
January 22, 2008

Nathan L
QOTD: I’d have to say its a tie. I’ve posted on it many times but the Sunday Morning you recommended was phenomenal and probably the wine I’ve bought the most bottles of. The other is The Crossing from 2-3 years ago. Hasn’t been quite as good since and its 3 dollars more.
January 22, 2008

CHATrBox
Way to sling the grass today G!
January 22, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
When you made the Seinfeld reference then started talking about the marketing, the “Who was the marketing genius who thought that up “line got stuck in my head and I had trouble hearing any more of the episode. Cloudy Bay has been good but looking at my tasting notes for the last year, no NZ Sauvignon Blanc stuck out as great. I think this has become the Sideways Pinot Noir of NZ. too much is being made. Too little care is going into the production in order to get the bottles out of the door. My favorite SB aroma is cat pee and grapefruit/Kiwi and that seems to be missing from most of them. I have had all but one of these you tasted and only Arona came across as decent and a good value. I have not had the Chasing Venus but will grab some just to try it. By the way, I never saw any comment on the Webware 2.0 contest. Are you not interested in that award?
January 22, 2008

Slushpuppy
The Mediterainan white wine from Spain is tasty and crisp. It has been our “house” white wine for a few years now. Still under $5.00 at Trader Joe’s.
January 22, 2008

BelgianBeerMistress
QOTD: I can recall two I liked a lot. One was a Nobile – I think it was the more basic version. I don’t remember thinking it was similar to a Chardonnay, but it was darn tasty. I also like the Allan Scott – but that was my very first NZ SB so who knows if I’d like it as much today…

Thanks for doing this episode. I just checked my white wine inventory last night and it is pathetic. And I don’t have one SB! Time to refill…
January 22, 2008

JeffC
Thanks GV, great show. Good selection of SBs. Hey, the Arona is already sold out?? Anywho QOTD: I have tried Cloudy Bay, Kim Crawford, Nobilo (lower end), Monkey Bay. By far the best Savignon Blanc from NZ that I have enjoyed over the past 2 or 3 years is from Bedford Road Estates, Marlborough. Beats Cloudy Bay, hands down. Price has been creeping up but still at least half the price of Cloudy Bay. Here is a link to their Website: http://www.bedfordroadestate.co.nz/default.asp

I buy locally in NC from retail shop Carolina Wine Co.
January 22, 2008

stewart l
QOD-Probably the 2006 Mahi S. Blanc
January 22, 2008

pomace
Love the “shootout” format!

QOTD: Isabel …2002
January 22, 2008

NC Carl
Great Episode, gonna have to branch out and try some of these.

Qotd – Nobilo (non-Icon) the one and only New Zealand SB that was good enough to remember.
January 22, 2008

KNode
I’m a big fan of Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand! And actually, I think my favorite has been the 2006 Monkey Bay, and it was only $8!
January 22, 2008

Irv
QOTD: Thanks for the NZSB episode. I have enjoyed the Nobilo and the Chasing Venus the most for New Zealand SB’s. As you commented, they remind me of wines from the Loire Valley, a style for SB’s which I prefer. Congrats again Gary for increasing our wine knowledge and awareness.
January 22, 2008

sobojosh
I guess mine would be Allan Scott. Not just for the wine but the company.
January 22, 2008

Eric A.
Awesome show today, but of course, I’m biased.

I’ve never heard of Chasing Venus or Arona, but I think those new good brands coming out of nowhere is going to happen more and more since the established guys are really seeming to push Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris these days, and are phoning in the SB a little. Not all of them, just some of them. And that’s leaving room for new players to come in and do the right things with SB. Icon and Tohu, I think, just had a bad day — they’re both usually a good bet (though they were both older, too, so that might have had something to do with it). But i’s good to see some new guys perform so well.

QOTD: Allan Scott, but again, I’m totally biased. Have also really enjoyed Dog Point, Huia, St. Clair and Spy Valley. My first SB discovery was Wairau River, which is usually a pretty good performer as well. I could drink NZ SB until it burns a hole right through my digestive system, like the blood in the Alien movies. Probably even longer….
January 22, 2008

Johnny Obnoxville
What happens with all the wines after the show is over?
January 22, 2008

WillSka
My favorite NZSWB for the past three years is Gusto by the Davis Family Vineyards. I believe the wine is only available through mail order. The DFV are out of Napa Valley, but their SB is from the Marlborough district of NZ. The wine is a real joy to sniffy sniff. It has great hay and grass components. The grapefruit is surrounded by tropical fruits (papaya) and by white flower petals; like the wite flowers you might smell in spring on a tree blossom. The tastee taste reveals a wine that has a fuller body than most lower end SBs I find do have with a bit of a waxy mouthfeel. The grass and tropical fruits blend beautifully with some lychee fruit and a wonderfully bright acidity.

That’s my favorite.
January 22, 2008

wayno da wino
Woooohoooo….Geee !!!!!
Thanx for a SUUUPER Episode….a Cat-Pee Extravaganza-O-Rama !!!

QOTD: Had a few…..Never had one dat a didn’t like….dhey ALLL
tasted good to me !! Bring-oooon da Cat-Pee !!!
January 22, 2008

BigBob
Marlborough needs AVA’s. It is a big region and there is poor areas of it. That is why you have some really cheap ones.
January 22, 2008

Dave
Villa Maria at the COSTCO price
January 22, 2008

Howard
I love the Cloudy Bay CS….but it is getting harder to shell out the Duckets these days for it…

That said,,,,I think a perfect pairing is Sauv Blanc and Lagastino Cocktails….Yummers!
January 22, 2008

Elliot Essman
I have had many NZ SB’s. I can’t say it is my favorite type of wine. Give me the Pouilly Fume.
January 22, 2008

Scott
Love the “marathon” tasting! Thanks GV.

QOTD: Allan Scott is probably my favorite. But the Kim C. a few years ago was solid for the money. Monkey bay is a great value, still available for
January 22, 2008

Nick H
i like how you used kiwi to describe NZ sav blanc, you taste what you taste and thats great, but a kiwi is also a person from NZ. anyways, haven’t been a fan of sav blanc or a whole lot of whites, but i’m learning to appriciate them, especially the sav blanc.
QOTD
i’ve had a few, none that stood out enough fro me to remember, but i will be trying some more soon. especially after reading eric arnolds “first big crush” great book, a must read.
January 22, 2008

Colin
GV – Good show. QOTD – I love me some Huia Sauv. Blanc.
January 22, 2008

Todd Smith
QOTD – I really like the 2006 Allan Scott Sauv Blanc
January 22, 2008

Todd Smith
Tried 2007 Waimea Sauv Blanc Nelson a few weeks ago, very nice – Pouilly Fume-like.
January 22, 2008

andrew
2006 Martinborough Vineyard, “Te Terra” Marlborough NZ. Most complex and dynamic one I’ve had. The nose is amazing, grapefruit heaven, with a little honeysuckle and kiwi…secondary flavors of pineapple and grass. Little bit pricey, but well worth it. I’ve had the Cloudy Bay and thought it was ok, but way overpriced. I’ve tried the Kim Crawford and thought it was a bit one dimensional. Nautilus was not bad, but missing something for me, perhaps that tropical zing. It was similar to a low-end sancerre. Look for the “Te Terra” it blew me away.
January 22, 2008

Chris
Matua Paretai- Phenomenal, but only available in NZ. Other than that, love the Oyster Bay.
January 22, 2008

billyg
2006 Babich for about $12 was a good deal. Longer on the finish than most NZ SBs I’ve had.
January 22, 2008

Michael
I love NZSB!
QOTD: Drylands 2006 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
January 22, 2008

John D Thomas
My favorite NZ SB – 2005 Matua Paretai which is avaiable in the US. Also Dog Point and Drylands is terrific.
January 22, 2008

The Fanjestic
QoTd: Kim Crawford, but it has been a little too over the top for my tastes lately. Good Episode but kind of a snooze fest. But very informative.
January 22, 2008

TennLee
QoTD: Uh… none. I’m letting my love of red show here!
January 22, 2008

Rock n Roll Andy
My favorite S.B. is The Nautalus. I think it even scored 92 points for 13 BONES!!!!
January 22, 2008

Saubrey
Good job with the SB plow. Got a lot knocked out there.

QOTD: Hmmm, really can’t remember. Haven’t had to many SB from NZ, but will definitely be trying to get my hands on the Chasing Venus.
January 22, 2008

Jimmy S
I have not been drinking long, but the 2004 Kim Crawford was the first one that I experienced where I was really impressed. I have to agree on the ‘07.
January 22, 2008

Jon Martinez
Hey Gary,

My first Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand that I fell love with was Selaks Premium Selection. That was about 7-8 years ago. Definitely when they were just starting to get into the American wine scene. That wine really made me start looking at not only N.Z., but other regions and varieties. There was more to wine other then California Chardonnays.
January 22, 2008

soleil
Favorite NZ SB — first one I had was Shepherd’s Ridge. I didn’t know anything about New Zealand Marlborough sauvignon blancs — just bought it off a front of store display at whole Foods before Thanksgiving a couple of years ago — only $9. It really surprised me, how different and delicious it was. So I started seeking these wines out and trying every one I could find, took them to every party and made everyone taste them. I found one called Saint clair, 2006, at Costco last summer, Matt Thomson, winemaker. I bought all they had because I thought it was good and a good price, $12. I still have some left and collect others when I see them, but I have sort of cooled off on them for a while. I agree about the Kim Crawford — very disappointing.
January 22, 2008

baccuhus7
OK, you finally drew this on and off lurker out with the Kim Crawford bashing. I used to hate all Sauvignon Blanc wines until I finally tasted a Kim Crawford 2003 wine and then it all changed for me. Sure I have tried other SB, but I am never satisfied until I come home to Kim Crawford. Yeah, the Chilaen’s are doing a pretty good job Veramonte for about $8 isn’t bad. The CA are terrrible as you say, which is why I have always hated this varietal. Kenwood the classic is all grass. Anyway I have followed the Kim Crawford for the past 5 vintages. 2003 was zesty, but over sulfitaed which ruined the nose, 2004 was fruity but a bit flabby, 2005 was nothing special but no defects, 2006 was great and scored a 92 by WS, but of all the previous vintages I think the 2007 is fantastic. I was getting it for $11.94, but recently my supplier has gone to $17.00 and even Walmart is finally cheaper. Sure it isn’t worth it at that price, but Kim Crawford is the best. I have tried a bunch of Marobourgh wines (Matua is a good deal at $8 – 10 and they claim to have started it all, Redcliffe nothing special, Brancott is overrated, etc. Sure I have tried the Sancerre, but it is the grapefruit that I am after and it is only New Zealand that delivers on that. What say Gary?
January 23, 2008

NickThe Wine Guy
I guess mine fave S.B. would be Oyster Bay
January 23, 2008

OldVinesJim
QOTD: Drylands 2005 (2006 didn’t quite live up to prior vintage IMHO)

I really like NZ SB and drink them often, but I can’t stand green/english peas so I feel like I’m playing Russian Roulette (Kiwi Roulette??) when I pull the cork. I’ve been on a bad run lately, too. Thanks for the warning on the New Harbor. I will avoid it at all costs.
January 23, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD: I’m not positive about the name, but I think the best I’ve had within my humble price range was Nautilus 2006 Sauv Blanc.
January 23, 2008

Marls
Villa Maria was my first intro to NZ Sauvignon Blanc. I’ve been hooked ever since on Marlborough SB. Have had good vintages of Babich, & Nobilo regular bottling. Will hunt for Arona and Chasing Venus!
January 23, 2008

Dan NYC
QOTD:KC was my favorite but the price keeps on going up and the quality is not getting better. This only means I have to drink more to find a new value. What a shame.
January 23, 2008

jumboj
last year the WL had a green bottle with a chicken on the label. that one brought the thunder!! the sunday mountain was an awesome steal too.
January 23, 2008

jumboj
i’d also like to add that 12 is 2007 MVP QB tom brandy’s number.
January 23, 2008

pforty
QOTD: Only had the Kim Crawford. Until today!! Going out to get some of the others now!!
January 23, 2008

Sharon
Hi Gary!, what a coincidence, I just opened a Matua Valley Marlborough SB last night. It’s really got an interesting nose – very crisp, and pretty grassy. Freshly mown. I suppose it smells like gooseberry (AKA goosenberry ), but I don’t really know what that smells like. Where the heck does one smell gooseberries?
P-A-T-S 4-Eva
January 23, 2008

Billy Mac
I have to go with the 2006 Drylands Sauvignon Blanc.
January 23, 2008

Jools B
QOTD: I really like the Seresin SB – all organic and turning biodynamic. 10% of the wine is oaked before bottling, which Gary might not like but it works for me. They also do a SB dessert wine, which I haven’t found in the UK yet. (www.seresin.co.nz). They also produce lovely olive oil
January 23, 2008

Derek
Great EP Gary, top 15!!!

QOTH: I like oaster Bay
January 23, 2008

Derek
Great EP Gary, top 15.

QOTD: I like oyster Bay
January 23, 2008

DC7
Matua
January 23, 2008

Linderelli
How. . . can you compare the girl next door to a Super Model? That made no sense. Saying everyone wants to marry the girl next door, but then she is forgettable? HUH? Super models are a figment of the imagination – the girl next door at least is real and knows you exist.

QOTD: I just started drinking SB last year and have not yet found a NZ SB in Eastern WA. . . sad. Maybe when I’m in CALI next week. . .
January 23, 2008

Erica37
I’m a stranger to the New Zealand Sauv Blanc! Will have to peep out the local selection and let you know.
January 23, 2008

Vine22
Love Sauvignon Blanc…the single best expression of terroir, period. Definitely the Drylands. The Crossings is pretty good as well. Crawford and Cloudy Bay are decent but there are soo many undiscovered gems out there…Vavasour, etc.
January 23, 2008

Tom L
QOTD: My favorite (from a QPR standpoint)sb was the Sunday Mountain with the weird label that you reviewed in 2007. I drank it all summer until WL ran out of it and I couldn’t find it anywhere else. It was GREAT.
January 23, 2008

chenrys
Enjoyed your descriptions, as usual.

QOTD: Never had it.
January 23, 2008

Aaron
I really like the Kim Crawford, the 06 or 05. Haven’t had the 07 yet.
January 23, 2008

Jo De Fazio
Hi there, the Tohu SB does not have a high RS, 4g/l which is still dry. The acidity is soft which might give you the wrong impression of the wine.

Best wishes
Jo
Marketing coordinator
Tohu Wines
January 23, 2008

Pastafari Pirate
QOTD: Haven’t tried very many, but at the
January 23, 2008

Pastafari Pirate
QOTD: Haven’t tried very many, but at the $12 range (which captures 90% of the wines I buy), the Monkey Bay SB was impressive.
January 24, 2008

Ryan
Daniel Schuster SB, no idea of the price, had it at the winery a year ago.
January 24, 2008

MH
Cloudy Bay Sauv is king. My personal favourites are Highfield, Dog Point, and Cape Campbell. 07 Sauv will be amazing. So watch out!
January 24, 2008

MH
P.S. To all those who said oyster bay was their fav. No one in NZ drinks oyster bay. Or at least anyone with taste buds.
January 24, 2008

Will Ska
I mentioned the Davis Family Vineyards “Gusto: earlier, But I need to add how much I enjoy the Craggy Range SB, too. I bet you have that at the store!
January 24, 2008

Susan
GARY: QOTD: Love Sauv. Blancs !!!!! My favs are from New Zealand!!!
January 24, 2008

Scott F
QOTD: I just had the 06 Kim Crawford this week and loved it. My wife only drinks white wines (which erks me), and I got this for her. I ended up liking it so much that I had to have a few glasses too.
January 25, 2008

NADINE ANTOUN
Hummm, I don’t think I ever had a New Zealand Sauvignon blanc, but if I don’t now after this show, I will get a beating, lmao
January 25, 2008

Big Nick
Nice show GV……long week at work so I am catching up. Never had a NZ SB, but will definitely have to give them some consideration. Thanks for the show.
January 25, 2008

JayZee
QOTD: I can’t say that I have a fave from New Zealand for Sauvignon Blanc. I guess I’ll just have to try some more of them and see.
January 25, 2008

Dan-o
I hate to sound so “main stream”, but I had a Cloudy Bay from either the 2003 or 2004 vintage that I thought was extremely good. I drink Babich and Kim Crawford from time to time. Nice summer wine!
January 25, 2008

Paul M
QOTD: its a tie between the 05 Vavasour and the 05 Kennedy Point
January 27, 2008

Josh in Burgundy
QOTD: I am going to go out on a limb and say it will be the next one I taste. Hopefully
January 27, 2008

wannaBconnoisseur
LOVE the NZ SB!!

Q-Drylands, great value, my go to NZ SB.
January 28, 2008

Mr.Ambassador
I really enjoy the flavors and crisp “zing” that New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc brings to the table. For the past year I’ve been sipping and sampling just about every new label I’ve seen from Marlborough and haven’t experienced many disappointments (QPR is about the only thing I’ve been upset with on occasion).

I was so taken with NZSB that I began sampling many more varietals looking for similar “crisp whites” and have now added many new favorites to the shelves; really superb food-wines. *Not from this region, but one of the intriguing surprises I found during my tastings was the Greek Boutari Moschofilero White…

QOTD – I’ve enjoyed the Dog Point very much. For sheer value one of the outlet stores here in western Washington was selling Marlborough “Zed” Sauvignon Blanc at $4.99 a bottle (it’s a solid wine and a super-sipper at that price)!
January 28, 2008

DARREL LAS VEGAS
QOTD: ATA RANGI S/B 2006 & ALLAN SCOTT S/B 2005
January 29, 2008

Tommy Vernieri
It’s been a while since I’ve answered a question of the day, I’m behind, Gary.

QOTD: I think it’s the Brancott 2006, though I’ve only had a handful and I’m not a big fan overall. The gassiness and the sharpness is too much for me.
January 30, 2008

Bobby
Would have been nice compare areas outside of Marlborough (Hawkes Bay or Martinborough) since I’ve found better wines there.
QTOD: Mahi 2007 SB
January 31, 2008

CollegeFootballisNumberOne
QOTD: Easily and by a mile the Craggy Range SB. Undeniable NZ fruit but it has great body to go with the stones, veggies, and earth flavors. World Class!
February 15, 2008

Carly
QOTD: I have yet to try one! Gotta get myself moving…

Good episode. I’m impressed at your ability to so thoroughly treat SEVEN wines in 20 minutes. Craaaazy. Or just radool.
February 15, 2008

Dan
Great episode…but you GOTTA get a better grasp of the proper pronunciations of those Maori names..
February 22, 2008

Claus
QOTD: Babich, 05 or 06 (don’t remember). Great classic NZ SB.

Speaking of, I’m heading to NZ for the first time in April, can’t wait!
March 3, 2008

ValerieM
QOTD: I’ve not had any really great SB’s, but I will look for the Chasing Venus.
July 2, 2008

Charlie
Best SB I had while I was in NZ (and I had quite a few) was Mount Riley.

I’m with you on the Kim Crawford, it’s not worth the price.
January 5, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
QOTD: I havent had enough to really answer that, but I did have a Villa Maria a while back that while not impressive, was still a decent wine. I also had a Kim Crawford which was pretty decent as well, so I will def. be buying more in the future. Not scared of the cat pee!!!!