Comparing Sauvignon Blanc wines from Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough is generally deemed unfair in that the Marlborough wines tend to be seen far more positively. This is due to their more extroverted fruit expression and crisp, penetrating acidity. Most consumers will see the Hawke’s Bay versions much more shy and often softer and thus with less character. For the more discerning palate, the Hawke’s Bay wines show riper fruit flavours, more fruit depth and presence and can have greater structure. The Marlborough wines can develop the less-pleasant green bean character sooner than the Hawke’s Bay wines. So it’s a fascinating comparison.
‘Wildflower’ is an export brand of Rod McDonald’s Te Awanga Estate. In 2017, he has made Sauvignon Blancs from Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough, and we can make a reasonably good regional comparison with the winemaker involved being the same person. I’m sure there will have been slightly different approaches and actions taken in making these wines, and also the vintage conditions differ to some degree, but there is much in common. Interestingly, the wines share identical technical figures. Here, I review the two wines. www.teawangaestate.co.nz
