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Chardonnay

Sauvignon Blanc

Aromatic

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Red Wine
 

Monowai 2011 Sauvignon Blanc

This week's wine comes from the Hawkes Bay, and more specifically from the Crownethorpe region of Hawkes Bay. Monowai is known for its cool climate style of wines.

Monowai was founded by two people with a passion for wine and experience both sides of the Pacific Ocean, more specifically in New Zealand and Chile. Emma Lowe graduated with a degree in winemaking from Adelaide University (Australia) and has since made wines in Australia, Switzerland, South Africa, France, Chile and New Zealand. Marcelo Nunez has been extensively involved in both viticulture and winemaking in Chile and New Zealand. They are committed to hand crafting fine wines under the Monowai label.

While Marlborough is known for its Sauvignon Blanc, the Hawkes Bay also produces its own style that can hardly be described as bland either. Hawkes Bay examples tend to have more tropical fruit flavours and less of the sharp nettle and gooseberry flavours than those Marlborough counterparts. They can make an interesting alternative for those who find Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc too overpowering.

I found the 2011 Monowai Sauvignon Blanc to exhibit ripe fruit aromas of tropical pineapple with a hint of white peach. These flow through to the palate with added notes of passionfruit and citrus. Monowai's aging technique has added a rich texture to the well-balanced wine. It has both good length and freshness. I would recommend trying it with grilled fish or a lightly spiced Asian dish.

Reviewed by Stephen Clark (3/10/2011)
 

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