The 2009 Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc has a seductive, peach-tinged nose that is quite floral with touches of rose petal and orange zest. The palate is medium-bodied and very harmonious with subtle Tropicana touches underlying the green apple and nettle flavors. Elegant and persistent on the finish, this is a very commendable Sauvignon Blanc. Drink now-2013. The clement weather during the 2009 vintage meant that Villa Maria's winemaking team faced a 20% above average crop. Bearing in mind the pitfalls of over-production in 2008, strict yield controls were imposed on each winery, with many lopping off a whole cane. Villa Maria continues to produce a strong diverse portfolio that embraces entry-level varietals to limited bottlings of single vineyards. As mentioned in previous reports their Pinot Noirs remain their Achilles heel in an otherwise impressive, diverse range. In particular, I feel that their Syrah are really coming into their own. I have included wines from Vidal and Esk Valley that are under the same umbrella, but treated separately. Importer: Ste Michelle Wine Estates, Woodinville, WA; tel. (800) 267-6793

Dried sage aromas add a savory edge to the light and crisp pear and citrus notes. Drink now. 6,000 cases imported.??–MW??Region: New Zealand / Marlborough Select to Add