For nearly two decades, the wine drinking world has been singing the praises of NZ Sauvignon Blanc.
In fact, this variety accounts for 65% of all New Zealand's exported wine: no surprise, of course, the latest national vineyard statistics show that there is now more than 7,000 hectares planted (compared to just under
4,000ha for Chardonnay and 3,750 for Pinot Noir)2004 has produced a veritable flood of SB; more than double the volume produced in 2003; but it pains me to say that not all '04 NZ SB could be classed as excellent or even very good.
I have recently returned from a wander through Marlborough and Canterbury, where it is quite apparent that a near perfect growing season has resulted in, what I would call "serious over cropping"
For the past four years, average yields were around 7 1/2 tonnes per hectare (sorry USAns, you will have to do the conversion!) - whereas '04 yields were approaching 12 tph.
Most of the big names have produced wines with the expected aroma intensity and flavour profile, but there are many wines on the market with lesser palate weight, which lack real personality.
I think my favourite mainstream Marlborough wine of this vintage is the Sacred Hill SB, whilst Lawson's Dry Hills; Jackson Estate and Nautilus Estate I also rate highly.
Palliser Estate from Martinborough is still way up there - in both quality and price - a domestic increase of 25% over last year does not impress - I will be interested to learn how it is priced in the USofA.
So, my advice is - avoid disappointment by buying a bottle first and try for yourself - before you buy the case.
Or even better, snap up the last of your preferred 2003.