2023 Rapaura Springs Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc Reserve

Family business Rapaura Springs was founded in 2005 and is one of the top 10 largest wineries in Marlborough. Purity and purity is what Rapaura Springs stands for. For example, the water used for the vines comes from the Rapaura Spring water source, far away from the vineyards. This crystal clear and pure water from the Wairau River flows through the rocks and travels a 6-month journey to reach the vineyards. The word 'Rapaura' therefore means: flowing water. There is a lot of attention to detail within the New Zealand winery and the makers strive to make the most exceptional, pure and clean wines. All wines are produced sustainably.

The 2023 growing season began with above average bunches on the vines across most Marlborough districts. Unsettled and cooler weather during flowering resulted in looser and lighter bunches, with the net effect of average yields across most varieties and regions. The weather around veraison was unstable and at times threatening. Ra[paura Spring were lucky, narrowly missing the devastation of the cyclone that hit the east coast of the North Island. Many other wineries in the region were more unlucky, losing much of their crop. The weather then settled into a pattern reminiscent of the early 2000s harvests. Nights were particularly cool, helping to counteract any small amounts of botrytis that may have developed in the early, uncertain weather. It was a vintage where patience was rewarded with fully ripe grapes with concentrated flavours and classic acidity.

The Sauvignon Blanc grapes for this wine are grown in the Dillons Point and lower Wairau sub-regions, which are renowned for their expressive aromas and ripe fruit flavours - without a doubt one of the best places to grow the best Sauvignon Blanc in Marlborough. The Rapaura winery is the only facility in this sub-region, meaning the grapes can be pressed immediately after harvest, minimising skin contact. This allows all the expressive aromas and fruit flavours to be captured, without any bitter phenols. After pressing, the juice is settled and then cool fermented in stainless steel to retain the vibrant flavours and aromas. The wine is then left to lie in steel for a minimum of 6 months, giving the Rapaura Springs Sauvignon Blanc Reserve a dose of extra complexity. Every sip is bursting with juicy flavours of passion fruit, tropical fruits and blackcurrant. The fruit flavor is balanced with fresh acids and a pronounced salty minerality, which together provide a delicious aftertaste.

DIETARY INFORMATION: Suitable for vegans, vegetarians and a gluten free diet.

FACT: In the Tab: Attachment you will find the official fact sheet of this beautiful wine. We will automatically send it to you when you order this wine. The wine is in our conditioned Wine Warehouse and if you come to pick up the wine you will also receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you choose Pick up in Checkout page. We are located almost next to the Rijksweg with plenty of parking. Click here for our address.

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1. Grilled green asparagus with lemon and Parmesan cheese

The green, slightly bitter notes of the asparagus are beautifully complemented by the fresh acidity and citrus aromas of the wine. The Parmesan adds a savoury depth that contrasts with the fruity character.

2. Sushi with salmon, avocado and wasabi

The tropical notes of the wine blend harmoniously with the fattiness of the salmon and avocado. At the same time, the acidity cuts through the fat nicely, while the minerality of the wine matches the umami of the soy and nori.

3. Goat cheese salad with walnuts and honey vinaigrette

Soft goat cheese and fresh acidity are a classic combination. The walnuts add texture and the honey vinaigrette complements the ripe fruit in the wine.

4. Thai green curry with chicken and lime leaf

The vibrant citrus and spicy notes in the wine enhance the fresh flavours of lime and coriander, while the low sugar content provides a refreshing contrast to the mild heat of the curry.

5. Scallop tartare with grapefruit and dill

The fine, salty taste of the scallops fits seamlessly with the mineral and citrus freshness of the Sauvignon Blanc. Grapefruit enhances the fruity notes in the wine, while dill provides a subtle spicy accent.

6. Roasted leek with burrata and lemon oil

The smoky notes of the leek provide a surprising contrast to the fresh profile of the wine, while the creamy burrata offers a soft counterpart. The lemon oil completes the bridge to the wine with its lively acidity.