Tohu Wines was New Zealand's first Maori-owner winery, and their 2024 Sauvignon Blanc is instantly appealing. Based in the Awatere Valley, in the southern part of Marlborough, the Sauvignon Blancs produced here showcase more herbal and mineral notes than their peers.
New Zealand's Awatere Valley -- Tohu's Vineyards
In fact, many critics and periodicals cite Awatere Valley Sauvignon Blancs as being the most Loire Valley-like. You can make comparisons all day, but to my palate, this is just a downright delicious bottle of white wine at a wonderful price. Rated 91 points by Wine Enthusiast, you won't find a better Sauvignon Blanc value out there.
2024 Tohu Sauvignon Blanc -- Why Should You Buy It?
- This floods the senses with classic Sauvignon Blanc style. As Wine Enthusiast said, it has a "well balanced palate with tangy, tongue-tingling acidity and lovely flavor intensity."
- The Awatere Valley is one of the 3 sub-regions of Marlborough. Noted for its well-draining, gravelly soils and windy conditions, these vines have to fight for survival, and this situation coaxes out intense aromas and flavors.
- Fermented entirely in stainless steel to preserve brightness and freshness, this shows wonderful varietal character. Bursting with aromas and flavors of kiwi, green apple, kaffir lime, and classic Awatere minerality, it's vibrant, juicy, and very attractive.
- Not all New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs taste the same. I know many of them do, but this one has a personality that's all its own.
I could see this tasting great with a seafood green curry, oysters on the half shell, or just a simple fried rice from Thai Chili Bistro, our neighbors. No food needed though!
