New Zealand Wines

SAUVIGNON BLANC
New Zealand produces no more than half a per cent of the world’s wine production. Without Sauvignon Blanc, the figure would be so small as to not be worth considering. Never before has one grape variety meant so much to the exporters who now send over 50% of their Sauvignon abroad, much to the U.K.

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Why is Sauvignon Blanc so fashionable ?
Forty years ago, restaurant lists might have a Sancerre or a Pouilly Fumé but would expect to sell far more Chardonnay be it Chablis, Macon Villages, Australian or Californian. Tastes have become rier, it is true but it is in our view the unique combination of pungent aromatic fruits, concentrated flavour and long finish which makes Sauvignon so exciting. It must be crisp too since bland versions are really not very nice. One of the most interesting points is the demand across the range from entry level through Forrest Estate and Alpha Domus up to the top of the range Palliser Estate and Cloudy Bay.

The success of Sauvignon Blanc enabled growers to try other varieties, white and red. Chardonnay is more Burgundian in style than Australian and the cool nights and sunny days are very suitable for Pinot Noir, often one of the world’s most difficult varieties to get right.

Our Alpha Domus Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon was a Wine of the Month in April 2009 Decanter and Alpha Domus were praised for their Bordeaux blends which include ‘The Navigator’ and ‘The Aviator’. If either came from Bordeaux, their quality is such that they would command double the price. The Alpha Domus winemakers are pictured at the winery.

For more details contact:

	Sales Director	01924 373328	07801 922478
	Sales Director - Pub Groups	01924 373328	07801 922480
David Robertson	Wine Development Manager	01924 373328	07813 662863
	Wine Key Account Manager	01924 373328	07837 193677
Peter Skuse	Pricing and Sourcing Manager	01924 373328	07801 922461
	Wine Administrator	01924 373328	07842 126966