Yvonne Lorkin.
So you think you're a bit of a sauvignon guru, do you? Well one thing we're extremely good at doing down here in Godzone is pushing the envelope, (which is much healthier than pashing the antelope) and here are two examples that'll have you second-guessing everything you knew...
Amisfield Central
Otago Fum Blanc 2014, $35
If you've never ventured further south than Marlborough for your sauvignon blanc, then woah, nelly! Prepare yourself for latitude 45 in all its loveliness. Smooth, toasty, biscuit and magic, mealy notes are stitched through incredibly rich, nectarine and lemon-like layers of flavour in this outstanding, barrel-fermented sauvignon from the Deep South. There's a honeyed, spicy tone, lovely minerality, hints of dried herbs and a long, generously proportioned finish. www.amisfield.co.nz
Pegasus Bay Sauvignon Semillon 2013, $30
The Donaldson family in Waipara, North Canterbury, have been crafting this quirky version of sauvignon since ages ago, and it's now got something resembling a cult following for its incredibly complex, toasty, tropical and herbaceous flavours. A splash of semillon imparts a distinct 'moist hay' and roasted almond character to the lemony, passionfruit and gooseberry intensity of the sauvignon blanc, making it an incredible match for whole roasted fish with lemon and herbs. www.pegasusbay.com
