Villa Maria Reserve Clifford Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2017, Marlborough, NZD $29.99

Concentrated sauvignon blanc with typical Awatere Valley gooseberry, wet stone, mineral, green capsicum, nettle and tomato leaf flavours plus a subtle passionfruit influence. Impressive purity and a perfect balance of acidity and subliminal sweetness. (Screwcap)

Score: 95 ★★★★★ – view Bob’s original tasting

Alcohol: 12.5%

Ageing: now to 2021

Food match: Duck liver parfait, pickles and toast

Stockists: Villa Maria Wines; Glengarry Wines, Auckland (NZ only)

Ranked #2 of 90 2017 Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough

Price Benchmark: NZD $26.32 Avg 95pt 2017 Sauvignon Blanc tasted from New Zealand