Published by Jeremy.
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Some wines are such classics that their association with a region goes hand-in-hand. Burgundy for Pinot Noir. Mendoza for Malbec. Marlborough for Sauvignon Blanc.
The Sauvignon Blancs that come out of New Zealand are some of the most popular in the world, and one producer that we see all over showcasing this grape is none other than Kim Crawford.
Naturally, we wanted to see what this one was about and picked up a bottle to enjoy. Varietal typicity? This one checks all the boxes.
A Straightforward Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough
This New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc was pale lemon in color with medium(+) aromas of green apple, grapefruit, pineapple, peach, peach ring, gooseberry, grass, lemon, and lime.
On the palate it was dry with high acidity, medium alcohol, flavor intensity, and finish, and a medium(+) body. We had notes of lemon, lime, pear, nectarine, pineapple, grapefruit, and a slight wet stone.
As far as flavors go, this one was admittedly a bit simple, but runs the spectrum from citrus notes all the way to ripe tropical character that we expect from the grape. Throw on high acidity that was decently balanced and all-around made for a bottle that just screams Sauvignon Blanc.
New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc Food Pairing – Potato Tomato Tart
We paired this high-acid Sauvignon Blanc with a potato and tomato tart to see how the wine would hold up with the dish's richness and an acidic pop from the tomatoes.
While this one held up nicely thanks to the wine's high acidity, we did not really get any appreciable transformation on the palate in the extent of new flavors or highlights of the food. The Sauvignon Blanc itself simply held its characteristic flavor to the very end- something we can still appreciate even if we want a bit more when it comes to food pairings.
Had we tried a pairing over again, we probably would've gone with something a bit less potato-forward and lean into an acid component or a light fish or Thai meal to complement.
Score: 2 / 5
We are okay on this one.
Overall, Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc is an immensely drinkable bottle from Marlborough. Although the flavors are a bit simple, for those who like a straightforward Sauvignon Blanc at a good value, this one could be for you.
Kim Crawford is located at 237 Hammerichs Road RD3, Rapaura, Blenheim in New Zealand. We purchased this bottle locally and enjoyed it in 2023.
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