Tastings, winery:
797 New Renwick Road, Blenheim, Marlborough, New ZealandBuy online directly from the producer:
dogpoint.co.nz/collections/the-winesExperimental phase: initial rating derived from official awards and critic reviews
James Suckling - 95 points
2023
Dog Point Vineyard's 2021 "Section 94" Sauvignon Blanc is a distinctive expression from Marlborough, New Zealand. Sourced from a single vineyard parcel planted in 1992, the grapes are hand-picked and undergo natural fermentation, followed by 18 months of aging in older French oak barrels.
This meticulous process yields a wine that is both aromatic and complex. On the nose, it presents a bouquet of sliced apples, lemons, bread dough, and salted pie crust, with subtle grassy undertones. The palate is succulent and fleshy, offering flavors of beeswax, peach preserves, candied ginger, and honeysuckle, complemented by a hint of smoke.
The wine's textural roundness is balanced by a fresh raciness, leading to a long, satisfying finish. This Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including fish, poultry, and soft white cheeses. It's especially delightful when enjoyed with salmon.
Dog Point Vineyard is a winery located in the Marlborough region of New Zealand, renowned for its exceptional conditions for viticulture. It was founded in 2002 by Ivan Sutherland and James Healy, former head viticulturist and head winemaker at Cloudy Bay Winery.