In New Zealand’s largest wine-producing region, surrounded by a sea of Sauvignon Blanc vineyards owned by corporate wineries, Astrolabe stands strong as an independent, family-owned producer of stunning wines. The Waghorn family should be proud of their success: seven consecutive vintages of 90+ scores from Wine Spectator earned through perseverance and skill.

This wine is made solely from Sauvignon Blanc and comes from growers in Marlborough’s Awatere, Waihopai, Wairau, and Brancott Valleys. The fruit was lightly pressed with minimal skin contact. The clear, cold-settled juice was fermented in stainless steel vats at low temperature allow the powerful fruit flavours to dominate.

This is a stunning example of the modern Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc style. It is impressively balanced with a ripe bouquet of elderflower, gooseberry, and passionfruit. The palate is broad and lush; those elderflower and gooseberry notes are perfectly matched by an almost Loire-like flinty acidity.

“Pungent and fruity, there’s complexity and purity with aromas of fresh citrus peel and pith, a saline minerality and white fleshed stone and tree fruit scents. The bouquet has power and presence which I find very appealing. A dry wine touches the palate first with core fruit flavours reflecting the bouquet plus red apple. There’s also a savoury spice quality further enhanced by the acid line. Delicious, refreshing, saline and ready to drink from early 2025 through 2030+.”
94+ points, Cam Douglas, December 2024

“Attractive sauvignon blanc with flint, green-apple and lime aromas and flavors. Medium body with sliced melon and slate. Focused and pretty. Drink now. Screw cap.”
93 points, James Suckling, November 2024