From Marlborough, NZ. Purchased for $23.

Aromatic nose of anise, lemongrass, and wet stone. Not as grassy as most NZ SBs. Superb balance between fruit and acidity in the middle. Flavors of grapfruit, lime, and tarragon. Lighter-bodied than Cloudy Bay. More "friendly" and not as "challenging" to drink. Slightly puckerish on the finish, but overall an excellent NZ SB. Paired very well with pan-fried provencal herb-crusted walleye. 89-90P. Drink now.

Cheers,

Otis

Great notes Otis,

I do disagree with the drinking now comment though. I think about a years age would allow it to gain some complexity. 2002 is one of the few Marlborough Sav vintages that will allow a little ( and I mean a little say a year or so) age due to high tartaric levels in the wines.

I think that the simple fruits that are there now will open up a great deal given a little time, and greater definition and complexity will show through. Having said that only time will tell.

Hi Jeremy,

Thanks for your note. I plan on buying more of these while they're still around and will keep my hands off at least one of them for a year, per your reco.

My experience with 2001 NZ SB was that they were better earlier in 2002 than later. For example my last bottle of '01 Cloudy Bay in November was not as vibrant as the first one I had in May. Glad to hear the 2002 vintage will have more sustaining power!

Cheers,

Otis