A Classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

The name Kim Crawford may be familiar to many - founded and based in New Zealand, the brand is now owned by Constellation Brands (which owns a number of other wine brands, such as Robert Mondavi, Meiomi, and Clos du Bois). This is my first bottle of Kim Crawford's Sauvignon Blanc. I can't believe I haven't it before - it's a very classic New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

While New Zealand produces only about 1% of the world's wines, it's known as the world's "Sauvignon Blanc capital." Located in South Island of New Zealand, the Marlborough region (where this wine is from) is the main growing area of Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Given its long and cool climate, the wines from this region are generally more acidic, crisp, and aromatic, compared to Sauvignon Blancs from the warmer and milder North Island.

My tasting notes on the 2019 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough ($17):

• See: The wine has a pale lemon color with a slight green tint. It's really light.

• Swirl: It has some very thin legs. The wine is 12.5% abv.

• Sniff: This wine is really expressive on the nose - it smells really refreshing with strong citrus fruits (lemon and grapefruit) and green apple with notes of freshly cut grass. I think this is one of the most pleasant Sauvignon Blancs on the nose. I like it!

• Sip: It tastes exactly like what I expected from its aromas - it's really zesty with strong citrus-forward flavors of lemon, lime, and grapefruit. It's dry with high acidity. Overall, it's really fresh, crisp, and refreshing.

• Savor: It has a clean finish. It also has some length with very subtle sweetness and notes of grass and herbs. It's a simple, easy-drinking wine - perfect for sharing with family or friends in the summer.

I actually split this wine over 3 nights - I poured myself a glass or two a night and saved the rest in the fridge. To my surprise, the wine saved really well over multiple nights. The citrus zing and acidity do become toned down overnight, but I thought it was just as enjoyable on the third night as it was on the first. I think it would also pair wonderfully with sushi or seafood (ah, how I crave fresh oysters). It's an excellent value wine and I'll get it again to share with friends this summer. Cheers!