Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 2023
LVMH (Moët Hennessy) · Cloudy Bay Vineyards, Marlborough, New Zealand
Cloudy Bay didn’t just put New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc on the map — it drew the map. Founded in 1985 as one of Marlborough’s first five wineries, it was Cloudy Bay that British critic Oz Clarke tasted before declaring New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc “arguably the best in the world.” Four decades later, the wine is still a benchmark. The 2023 vintage was blended from 55 of 81 individually fermented vineyard lots, with that tiny percentage of wild yeast and large-format oak adding just enough savory complexity to lift it above the pack. Named after the bay Captain Cook charted in 1770, it’s a wine that carries its geography in every sip.
Nose
Honeydew melon, passionfruit, vibrant citrus, fresh blackcurrant leaf
Palate
Concentrated and elegant — makrut lime, lemongrass, Meyer lemon, grapefruit skin, stone fruit, hint of sea air
Finish
Long and complex with refreshing saline edge and fresh-squeezed lemon acidity
- Varietal
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Blend
- 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Cocktail Suggestion
Cocktail — The Cloudy Bay Spritz: 4 oz Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc · 1 oz Aperol · 2 oz sparkling water · Fresh grapefruit wedge. Build in a large wine glass over ice.
Food Pairing
Pair with: Fresh ceviche with lime, cilantro, and avocado — the wine’s bright acidity and tropical fruit are a natural partner for raw fish.
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