Tasting Notes
Light colour Lemongrass and gooseberry on the nose On the palate lime and green pepper Reasonable to good
✦ Wine Intel
AI ResearchedThe Villa Maria Reserve Coastal Awatere Sauvignon Blanc is a single-subregion expression sourced from selected parcels in the cool, coastal Awatere Valley of Marlborough — the easternmost part of the region, where Pacific Ocean southerlies moderate temperatures, prolong the growing season, and retain vibrant acidity and green flavours. It is positioned in Villa Maria's premium Reserve tier, a step above the Private Bin, and has earned double-trophy recognition at international competitions. Fermented in stainless steel and rested briefly on lees, it delivers both aromatic intensity and textural depth.
Villa Maria Estate
Founded in 1961 by Sir George Fistonich, Villa Maria is one of New Zealand's most prominent and historic wine producers, with vineyards spanning Marlborough, Hawke's Bay, Gisborne, and Auckland. In 2021, the brand was acquired by Indevin Group, New Zealand's largest wine producer, and has been named New Zealand's most awarded winery at the IWSC for over 20 consecutive years.
Blend
100% Sauvignon Blanc
Tasting Profile
A powerful and expressive Sauvignon Blanc with pungent aromatics of lemongrass, jalapeño, fresh herbs, passion fruit, elderflower and white peach; generous on the palate with vibrant lime, garden peas, and a long, lightly smoky mineral finish.
Region
The Coastal Awatere is the easternmost sub-valley of Marlborough on New Zealand's South Island, cooled by southerly winds from the Pacific Ocean that moderate temperatures and extend the growing season, retaining high natural acidity and vivid green-fruit character in the grapes. Marlborough as a whole accounts for around 90% of New Zealand's Sauvignon Blanc production, but the Awatere is notably cooler and more mineral-driven than the main Wairau Valley.
Price Context
Approximately £15.50 at Tesco (UK); around $21–$24 USD at retail internationally, depending on market.
Food Pairings
Critic Scores
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