Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc
Sourced from vineyards across the Marlborough region, this intense Sauvignon Blanc is alive with a myriad of flavours dominated by gooseberry, passionfruit, fresh citrus and herbaceous aromas.
Our Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc showcases everything fresh and vibrant about Marlborough. Initially, the classic Awatere aromas jump out of the glass, such as lemongrass, jalapeño peppers and fresh herbs. The cool climate in the Awatere Valley is influenced by Mt Tapuae-o-uenuku and the cool alpine winds and fresh sea breezes protect the natural acidity in this wine. In contrast, the Wairau Valley has warmer summer months, with dry nor-westerly winds influencing vineyards to produce a pungent Sauvignon Blanc with ripe citrus and tropical fruit flavours.
In 1961, at just 21 years of age, George Fistonich leased five acres of land from his father in Mangere, Auckland and started off with just an acre of vines.
George made his first wine under the name Villa Maria in 1962 with grapes harvested from this block.
Throughout the 1960s Villa Maria was a one-man band, with George’s wife, Gail, supporting him in his venture.
George made dry red and white wines, sourcing grapes from the greater Auckland regions.
In the early 1970s George started to employ staff and the company expanded rapidly.
Today, Villa Maria employs more than 250 permanent staff, grows 28 different grape varieties, and exports wine to over 60 countries worldwide.