Product Description:
A standout in Marlborough's renowned Sauvignon Blanc lineup, Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc 2023 delivers a high-class expression of the variety that even the most discerning Sauvignon Blanc skeptics will appreciate. Known for its concentrated fruit and exceptional length, Dog Point consistently sits firmly in the top tier of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, and the 2023 vintage is no exception. A dry, aromatic style that balances vibrant citrus with refreshing saline acidity, this wine is perfect as both an aperitif and a pairing for seafood.
Sourced from eight meticulously cared-for vineyards in the Wairau Valley, this Sauvignon Blanc is crafted through whole-bunch pressing and aged for four months in stainless steel. A portion undergoes fermentation with indigenous yeast, adding a layer of complexity that elevates the wine. Certified organic, it stands as a testament to both the unique terroir of Marlborough and the careful attention to detail from Dog Point.
Maker
Dog Point Vineyard is one of Marlborough’s oldest and most respected privately owned wineries, founded by Ivan and Margaret Sutherland in the late 1970s. As pioneers in the region, they helped shape the evolution of the Marlborough wine industry, with the Dog Point label officially launching in 2004. Today, the vineyard remains family-owned, with the next generation continuing the tradition of producing wines with uncompromising quality and attention to detail.
The vineyard is New Zealand’s largest certified organic vineyard, producing wines that reflect the pristine environment of Marlborough. Dog Point’s wines are made with minimal intervention, using wild yeasts and a philosophy focused on authenticity, balance, and the natural expression of the land. This commitment to organic viticulture and low intervention winemaking allows their wines to shine with purity and complexity, making each bottle a true representation of the Dog Point estate.
Philosophy
At Dog Point, the philosophy is rooted in organic farming, sustainability, and a commitment to the land. They believe that the best wines come from the vines themselves, nurtured by nature, with minimal intervention during the winemaking process. Dog Point’s organic principles are reflected in every step of their production, from hand-picking the grapes to fermenting in French oak barrels with indigenous yeasts.
The estate’s vineyards are planted on free-draining silty clay loams and hillside blocks, which provide optimal conditions for slow ripening, allowing the grapes to develop deep, concentrated flavours. Dog Point’s low-cropping approach ensures that only the best fruit is selected, and the use of minimal filtration and no fining in the winery reflects their hands-off ethos. This dedication to organic viticulture and minimal intervention ensures that their wines are as expressive of the land as they are of the winemakers’ vision.
Tasting Notes:
Nose
Tropical, Zesty, Herbaceous
An expressive bouquet of guava, melon, lemon, and lime, with a harmonious herbal quality and talc-like mineral sweetness. There’s a depth to the aromatic profile that promises the complexity to come.
Palate
Crisp, Intense, Lively
Fresh grapefruit and tropical fruit flavours, underpinned by a delicate saline texture. The vibrant citrus notes are balanced by crisp acidity, giving the wine a bright and invigorating character. It’s full of energy yet beautifully refined.
Finish
Cleansing, Balanced, Refreshing
Long and refreshing, with a clean, mineral edge that lingers gracefully, making you reach for another sip. The acidity remains well-integrated, providing structure and balance to the fruit-forward profile.
Reviews + Accolades:
"Bright, fresh wine with typical varietal/regional characters including capsicum, gooseberry, lemongrass and passionfruit. Appealing purity with a perfect sweet/sour balance. A pleasure to taste."
- Bob Campbell MW - 95 points
"If you’d like to taste Sauvignon Blanc in its modern day glory, look no further... this is a triumph of a vintage and its magic is captured in the bottle. Drink now with raw scallop ceviche."
- Shanteh Wale (Wine Pilot) - 95 points
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Sauvignon Blanc
Country - New Zealand
Region - Marlborough
Vintage - 2024
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13%
Other - Organic