Wines Marlborough Villa Maria - Reserve Southern Clays - 2023

Villa Maria’s Reserve Southern Clays 2023 is a white wine hailing from the Marlborough region, one of New Zealand’s most prestigious and internationally recognised wine-producing areas. As with many Marlborough whites, this cuvée is likely crafted primarily from Sauvignon Blanc, though other varieties such as Chardonnay or Pinot Gris are sometimes included in lesser proportions. The “Southern Clays” designation suggests grapes sourced from distinctive clay soils, typically yielding wines of notable texture and depth. The 2023 vintage, being relatively recent, promises lively freshness, intense aromatics and vibrant acidity. The vinification for such reserves often involves careful temperature control and minimal intervention to preserve the purity and expressiveness of the fruit, resulting in a wine that is vivid and elegantly structured.

Marlborough, situated at the north-eastern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, enjoys a temperate maritime climate with long sunshine hours, cool nights and well-draining soils, particularly in the Wairau and Awatere Valleys. These unique conditions allow for a slow and prolonged ripening season, which, in turn, enhances aromatic complexity and natural acidity in the wines. Marlborough’s rapid rise to global fame is largely due to its intensely fragrant, crisp white wines, which stand as some of the best expressions of New Zealand’s cool-climate viticulture.

This Reserve Southern Clays cuvée is particularly suited to pairing with fresh seafood, such as oysters, green-lipped mussels or grilled fish, where its zesty acidity and minerality can shine. It also complements lighter salads with citrus dressings, goat’s cheese, or Asian-inspired dishes with ginger, lemongrass and coriander. For a regional match, you might consider New Zealand’s famous green-lipped mussels or a simple crayfish salad.

To best appreciate its aromatic bouquet and vivid palate, serve this white wine well chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Enjoy while youthful and fresh, but a short period in bottle may reveal further nuance and complexity.