Review: Waipapa Bay Marlborough Pinot Gris and Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand

 

 

You don't see it as often as you do Sauvignon Blanc, but New Zealand produces some pretty darn good Pinot Gris. The climate in Marlborough is quite favorable for it. The 2019 Waipapa Bay Pinot Gris from Marlborough New Zealand ($15) is delightfully exotic with cantaloupe, juniper berry, quince and lime notes that have nice weight on the palate and finish bright and zesty. It's just a really neat white wine that could pair with mild, creamy cheeses, shrimp or white fish with a mango salsa, or a coconut curry. Great stuff. (92 Points)

As for the 2020 Waipapa Bay Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand ($15), you can't do much better for the money. This fresh and substantial Sauvignon nails that gooseberry NZ character and adds a bit of grapefruit and grass, and a bit of creaminess to the profile. It also has nice weight and concentration on the palate, which sets it apart from lesser wines from New Zealand in this price range. If you like Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand (and I do very much), you'll find this one very easy to love. (91 Points)