Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Matua Valley 2011 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough


In 1974, Matua Valley was the first winery to produce Sauvignon Blanc in New Zealand. In fact, they proudly proclaim that they have changed the way the world drinks wine. For that we all owe them a great debt.
At about $11, Matua Valley Sauvignon Blanc is a safe, everyday wine. However, it lacks the pizazz to send us into cartwheels.
In the glass there is a bright yellow with greenish hue. Swirling releases some nice tropical aromas.
On the palate the flavor of grapefruit chimes in strongly. There is pleasant acidity, but not quite enough to give the vibrancy we hope for in a Marlborough Sauv Blanc. It certainly will do for a casual sip, but not for special occasions.
We noticed that Matua has a wide spectrum of wines, ranging from the First Frost line, which is 25% lower in alcohol and calories, to the Single Vineyard line, which looks right tasty. Perhaps these wines have the stamp to make them legendary. This offering is a bit nondescript for the pioneer of New Zealand’s signature grape – especially in a category where great values abound.
Rating: 2 of 5  Value: 2 of 5
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