2025 Alpine Rift - Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough (750ml)

Alpine Rift takes its name from the geological faultline running between New Zealand's Southern Alps and the Pacific coastline, a rugged landscape that shelters Marlborough's vineyards from harsh westerly winds. The mountains, thrust up over millions of years, along with ancient glacial soils and a cool, sunny climate, create the conditions that have made Marlborough one of the world's most acclaimed regions for Sauvignon Blanc. The project draws on multiple growers across the region rather than a single estate, blending fruit to capture a fuller expression of the area's character.

Fruit for this bottling comes from several vineyard sites across Marlborough's Southern Valleys, Rapaura, Renwick, and the Awatere Valley, where a mix of heavier loess clay and free-draining alluvial soils, combined with naturally low yields and open canopies, allows small, golden bunches of intensely flavored grapes to ripen fully. Grapes are picked in the cool early morning hours to preserve freshness, then gently pressed and cold settled before a portion undergoes wild fermentation in old oak barrels, adding texture and complexity to the classic Marlborough style.

The wine is pale lemon-green in the glass, with aromas of gooseberry, white grapefruit, passionfruit, and fresh spring flowers, joined by notes of nectarine and blackcurrant leaf. The palate is rich and layered, carrying lemon-lime citrus and a touch of honeydew through to a crisp, refreshing finish. It suits grilled or pan-seared fish, fresh goat cheese, or a bright green salad with citrus vinaigrette.