Our Selection for Wine of the Week September 24, 2012
Brancott Estate 2010 'B' Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand
Brancott Estate (formerly Montana Wines) was instrumental in putting New Zealand on the international wine map. Beginning as early as 1973, the winery's founder, Frank Yukich, declared to all who would listen that the wines from the Marlborough region "will become world famous." His commitment paid off; today, Marlborough is considered to produce some of the New World's greatest white wines. As a leader in New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Brancott produces both an estate SB as well as the single-vineyard 'B.' The 2010 'B' is made with grapes from Brancott's original Sauvignon Blanc vineyard. It offers aromas of white flower with hints of tropical fruit, cut grass and tarragon. Juicy passion fruit flavor dominates on the front of the palate. Toward the back of the palate it offers classic Marlborough grassy notes along with a touch of bell pepper. It is a full-bodied rendition of Sauvignon Blanc, yet it maintains classic, racy citrus acidity. We particularly like a sophisticated note of minerality toward the finish. A food-friendly wine, it would work well with any herb-flavored dishes from pasta with pesto to an herb-crusted loin of pork or even a tarragon chicken salad.