Wines Marlborough Rapaura Springs - Sauvignon Blanc - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Rapaura Springs Sauvignon Blanc 2020 from Marlborough encapsulates all the vibrancy and aromatic intensity that have put New Zealand on the world wine map. Crafted exclusively from Sauvignon Blanc grapes, this cuvée is noted for its expressive bouquet brimming with zesty citrus, passion fruit, fresh-cut grass, and a subtle mineral streak. The 2020 vintage enjoyed a textbook growing season, with extended sunshine and cool nights that enabled the grapes to ripen perfectly while retaining exceptional acidity. Vinification is typically carried out in stainless steel to preserve those hallmark fresh, pure fruit characters, ensuring a wine that's crisp, lively and precise.

Marlborough, situated at the north-eastern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, is the country's most emblematic wine region, especially for Sauvignon Blanc. Its unique terroir combines free-draining alluvial soils with a temperate maritime climate, marked by warm days and cool nights. These conditions slow the ripening process, allowing the grapes to develop intense aromatics and flavour complexity. Since commercial wine production began in Marlborough in the late 1970s, the region has quickly gained a global reputation, and today, Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough is widely revered for its aromatic punch and electric freshness.

Given its bright acidity and pronounced aromatics, this wine pairs beautifully with a range of seafood—think freshly shucked oysters, green-lipped mussels or grilled prawns. It also complements goat’s cheese, notably the region’s own Marlborough Ash, and lighter dishes such as asparagus risotto or Thai-style salads with lemongrass and coriander. For a local accent, try it with a simple whitebait fritter or a summer salad of ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Rapaura Springs Sauvignon Blanc 2020 well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. This will accentuate its crispness while allowing the lively flavours to unfold beautifully on the palate. Enjoy within the next couple of years for maximum freshness.