# Pounamu Special Selection Sauvignon Blanc (2019)

- **Producer:** Pounamu
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sauvignon Blanc
- **Region:** Marlborough, New Zealand
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €18
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** melon, passion fruit, mandarin, bell pepper, peach, lime, lemon, grass

## About this wine

Pounamu Special Selection Sauvignon Blanc hails from the renowned Marlborough region of New Zealand, a global benchmark for this grape variety. The producer, Pounamu, sources its fruit from select vineyard sites across Marlborough, ensuring optimal quality. The "Special Selection" designation indicates a focus on premium fruit and careful craftsmanship. The vineyards are sustainably accredited by NZ Winegrowers, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship. While specific details for the 2019 vintage are limited, the wine consistently aims to express the vibrant, aromatic character typical of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

## Interesting facts

- "Pounamu" is the Māori word for greenstone, a highly valued jade found in New Zealand.
- The vineyards are sustainably accredited by NZ Winegrowers, highlighting eco-conscious practices.
- The 2023 vintage received Double Gold at the Sakura Awards and Gold at Mundus Vini.
- The wine is sealed with a screw cap, a popular choice in New Zealand for maintaining freshness.

## Food pairing

This Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, with its vibrant acidity and aromatic profile, excels with dishes that share similar fresh, tangy, or herbaceous characteristics. Its crispness cuts through the richness of soft cheeses like goat's cheese and feta, while its citrus and green notes complement seafood, fresh vegetables, and light poultry. Avoid overly rich or sweet dishes that would overpower its delicate nuances.

## Wine making process

The viticultural practices for Pounamu Sauvignon Blanc involve planting vines in north-south facing rows with a Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) trellis system, which promotes even ripening. The vineyards are sustainably managed, and grapes are machine harvested at optimal ripeness. In the winery, the fruit is de-stemmed and gently pressed. The resulting juice undergoes cold-settling before being racked and inoculated with cultured yeast. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, a common technique for preserving the fresh, primary fruit characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc.