New Zealand’s Marlborough district lies on the north end of New Zealand’s South Island and is synonymous with Sauvignon Blanc. Most of Marlborough’s vineyards are in the valley of the Wairau River, but the appellation also encompasses the Awatere Valley, that lies just south of the Wairau. The Awatere is a cooler site with a higher elevation than the Wairau and that is reflected in the wines. Founded in 1998, the Tohu Winery set its focus on growing grapes and making wine in the Awatere Valley. The 2023 Tohu Sauvignon Blanc is a delicious example of Awatere’s distinctive style. It shows a wonderful combination of pineapple, pink grapefruit and guava fruit scents followed by hints of lily and fresh herbs. The flavors of mouthwatering citrus, peach and tropical fruits are backed by subtle floral and herbal hints. The wine combines depth of flavor with refreshment and is a great match for most any seafood or poultry dish.
91 Wayne Belding
Tohu, Awatere Valley – Marlborough (New Zealand) Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ($18, Total Beverage Solutions)
By Wayne Belding
