Three Marlborough Sauvignons from 2019: Greywacke, Framingham and Nautilus
2019 followed two very difficult vintages in Marlborough. Yields were slightly down, but the warm, dry conditions were welcomed after two years that were close to disaster because of rain at the wrong time (although there were some nice wines in 2018 despite this). This was a nice chance to look at three highly regarded Sauvignons from the new vintage, from producers who are members of the new Appellation Marlborough organization.
Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc 2019 Marlborough, New Zealand
13.5% alcohol
From the central Wairau and Southern Valleys. Complex nose of pear, spice and a touch of fig, with some fine green herbal hints. The palate is nicely dense with sweet fruit (pear, peach, some citrus) and good acidity. It’s rich but compact, with the focus on the ripe fruit characters and Sauvignon’s green side firmly in a background role. Sophisticated stuff with some bass and middle as well as the Marlborough treble. 92/100
Framingham Sauvignon Blanc 2019 Marlborough, New Zealand
13% alcohol
Has a bit of skin fermentation, plus a bit of barrel (acacia and oak) to add complexity. Aromatic nose with a mandarin edge to the bright grapefruit and quince palate. Pretty and linear with good acidity and some elderflower complexity. Covers the spectrum of Marlborough Sauvignon, with real flair. 92/100
Nautilus Sauvignon Blanc 2019 Marlborough, New Zealand
13% alcohol
This is focused, bright and lively, with a lemon and grapefruit core supplemented by elderflower and lemon zest. There’s a twist of green, but the main theme here is bright, finely wrought citrus fruit supported by keen, nervy acidity. Lovely intensity here: this even has the potential to develop in bottle. 91/100
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