As an island country in the South Pacific Ocean, New Zealand has a largely maritime climate, although its elongated geography produces considerable regional variation from north to south. Sauvignon Blanc, with its grassy smell, put New Zealand wine in the international spotlight in the 1980s. Since then, wine exports have boomed, with Pinot Noir another big hit. We will sample:

Tohu Sauvignon Blanc 2022, Marlborough — For centuries, the Maori people, who are indigenous to New Zealand, worked, lived on, and loved the rugged yet fertile lands of their ancestors. There was awareness that the earth was the giver of all life. It was accepted that the people who were born onto that land inherited the right to produce from it and to protect it for the benefit of all. Tohu Wines is the first indigenous-branded wine to be produced for the export market. Sourced entirely from vineyards located in Southern Marlborough’s Awatere Valley, this wine displays aromas of citrus zest and vibrant tropical fruit with notes of fresh spring herbs complemented with hints of orange blossom and lemongrass. The palate is layered with flavors of juicy ripe lemon and lime, lemongrass, sweet fresh pineapple, and crunchy green apple. An outstanding fruit concentration and zesty underlying minerality lead to a pure, focused dry finish. Medium-bodied with vibrant acidity. 13% ABV. $22.50/$7.50

Kumei River Village Pinot Noir 2022, Hawke’s Bay — Hawke's Bay is a region on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island. Founded in 1944, Kumeu River winery was one of the early pioneers that helped establish the area as a world-class wine region. Founder and winemaker, Michael Brajkovich, became New Zealand’s first member of the prestigious Institute of Masters of Wine of London and the winery is still family owned and operated. This Pinot Noir displays bright cherry red/burgundy color. On the palate the wine is round and fruity with a hint of chalky tannin. Soft, fruity, fresh, and youthful, this wine showcases the core signature of Pinot Noir: light red fruit aromas, immediately approachable fine fruit tannins, and a bright refreshing finish. Balanced and well made with medium length and moderate complexity. 13% ABV. $24.99/8.50

See you Friday!