Decanter

One of the most sought after Marlborough Sauvignons, demand must follow owner Kevin Judd around - he was chief winemaker at Cloudy Bay for 25 years before deciding to go things alone. Intriguing fenugreek seed and bacon fat aromas evolve into elderflower and citrus. On the palate, intense gooseberry and fenugreek dominate, with elderflower and honeysuckle providing some richness, followed up by slight mineral notes. Although vibrant, the acidity is kept in check, making this a well-balanced wine.

Wine Spectator

Opens with a fragrant floral note, offering high tones of honeysuckle. The lemon meringue pie and dried mango flavors are intense and vivid, showing terrific intensity on the finish.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2016 Sauvignon Blanc has a fresh grass, bay leaves, green beans and wild thyme-led nose with hints of lime leaves and lemongrass. Medium-bodied and with a lovely creaminess to the texture, it offers great intensity and a long green-veggie finish.

Jancis Robinson

On first opening there was a slight hint of smoke but this soon blew away to reveal intense and pure fruit. Not pungent but deep and ripe - citrus and green fruits, including some candied green fig. Equally intense and ripe-fruited on the palate, managing to be both mouth-filling, almost a little viscous, and intensely fresh at the same time. Although there is fruit sweetness on the palate, the finish tastes pretty dry with a clean stony finish. Very long citrus aftertaste. Generous and all very primary at the moment. No rush to drink this. 17/20 points (JH)

(11/2016)