Hunter’s Sauvignon Blanc, the wine that ignited the Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc revolution, continues to shine brightly in its latest vintage.
This iconic wine, which stole the show at the Sunday Times Wine Club Vintage Festival in 1986, is now meticulously crafted under the expertise of viticulturalist Jane Hunter, OBE, and Companion of the NZ Order of Merit for viticulture, alongside her winemaking nephew.
From the renowned Wairau Valley, this Sauvignon Blanc has an ABV of 12.5% and presents the classic, vibrant flavours that have made it a favourite for decades. The 2023 vintage showcases a delightful medley of passion fruit, grapefruit, melon and lime, creating a symphony of tastes that is all about balance. The extended time on lees adds a deeper taste and complexity, enhancing the wine’s profile without compromising its clean, crisp character.
One notable feature of this vintage is its slightly more citrus lemon acidity, which imparts a refreshing freshness that distinguishes it from more recent Sauvignon Blancs that sometimes present muddled or musky flavours. Instead, Hunter’s Sauvignon Blanc 2023 retains the clarity and purity reminiscent of its 1980s predecessors.
At £16.99 when purchased as part of a mix of six from Laithwaites, this wine offers not only a taste of history but also an exceptional example of modern winemaking finesse.
