Through the years, I have preferred the (generally) more-complex, less-fruity Sauvignons of Martinborough to those of Marlborough on the South Island. In large part, Craggy Range led the pack here, although several other producers made excellent wines as well. Today I feel that here – as elsewhere – Craggy has slipped a notch or two since Steve Smith left, now several years ago, and perhaps that is reflected in the price. While this wine is certainly enjoyable, you would be hard pressed to pick it out of a lineup with similarly priced Marlborough Sauvignons. It has some interesting chalky notes, but mainly it is straightforward green fruits and vegetables, including a good dose of sorrel among the lime and kiwi fruit.
Craggy Range, Martinborough (New Zealand) Sauvignon Blanc 2022
By Roger Morris
