We love buying Canadian (or better still, Ontario) produce wherever possible, but we’re happy to give credit where credit is due. So when we’re looking for a great glass of crisp, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, we're willing to cast our sights internationally. Marlborough, New Zealand – widely regarded as one of the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc regions – is a great place to start.
Why does the region produce such great wine? Since Sauvignon Blanc is a terroir-driven variety, the grape really reflects the area it comes from and thrives in a cool climate – which explains how Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc takes on the magical flavours of passion fruit, bright citrus and gooseberry.
Located in the north-eastern corner of New Zealand’s South Island, Marlborough is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east and mountain ranges to the north and south. Thanks to the strong contrast between the regions hot sunny days and cool nights, the ripening period is much extended, resulting in a unique aroma and flavour to their grapes. Oyster Bay Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is perfect as an aperitif but also works well with seafood like tuna or salmon, or cajun and spicy dishes.
And it’s not just Sauvignon Blanc that Marlborough is doing well. Oyster Bay Pinot Noir is another aromatic wine that’s benefiting from the temperate, maritime climate of New Zealand. The silky smooth red was awarded a Double Gold Medal at the latest San Francisco International Wine Competition, proving that the famous wine growing region has many strings to its bow. Match the cherry, bright red berry and juicy black plum flavours with red meats, ribs and game, and smoky flavours like bacon.
Oyster Bay Pinot Grigio rounds out the trio of elegant, fruit-forward wines. Taking leave from Marlborough comes a vibrant white from Hawke’s Bay, a region on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. From Crownthorpe’s sun-drenched terraces to the stony soils of the Gimblett Gravels, Hawke’s Bay produces wine as diverse as the landscape itself and some of New Zealand’s best Pinot Grigio. This crisp white displays notes of pear and nectarine, with a graceful stonefruit and floral backdrop, and pairs perfectly with salads, fish tacos, fragrant curries and fresh Asian flavours.
Marlborough and Hawke's Bay might not be on our doorstep, but Oyster Bay wines (available at the LCBO) capture the special character of New Zealand. Sometimes you need to go to the ends of the earth to find a taste made in heaven – but luckily for us, we can experience it all from the comfort of our own home.
