2005 Matua Valley Sauvignon Blanc “Paretai”. Marlborough, New Zealand. 13.5% alcohol. $16.
The Paretai is a brilliant light yellow with slight green tinges. Powerfully aromatic with scents of intense, tart kiwi, pink grapefruit, fresh cut herbs, grass, and lemon rind. The wine lets you down a tad in the mouth despite much of the nose’s strength continuing on the palate. Loads of crisp acidity. Good length. Attractively packaged with a screwcap closure. While this is fairly priced given that the standard Matua Valley is even more of a value it is questionable if trading up to the Paretai is warranted especially when one considers what New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs are best suited for – summer sipping. Drink now. 90 points.