Pyramid Valley Sauvignon Blanc North Canterbury 2019

Pyramid Valley proudly stands above the herd when it comes to New Zealand sauvignon blanc. This is a fantastically unique, utterly spectacular sauvignon blanc from North Canterbury that just may be the best New Zealand SB you’ve ever tasted! At OVER 40% OFF, do not miss this 95-POINT gem!

Founded by Mike and Claudia Elze Weersing, Pyramid Valley is set among the dramatic limestone rock formations in the remote Waikari region in the northern reaches of New Zealand’s South Island. Both founders came in with a background based in enology, biodynamic agriculture, and viticulture. They envisioned Pyramid Valley as an opportunity to change the conversation on New Zealand wines of the early 2000s – focusing on smaller yields and sustainable agriculture to produce unique and distinctive wines that represent the spectacular diversity of New Zealand.

They affectionately named this wine “Sauvignon +” – not just because it blends in 5% riesling, but also because they are thoughtfully crafting this wine to showcase complexity, intensity, textures, and an overall expression of the grape beyond simple fruit and freshness (though it certainly has that, too!). The grapes are fermented and aged in a variety of vessels – including clay amphorae, stainless steel, and oak. Some of the fruit is fermented on the skins, providing a touch of golden color, rich texture, and immense complexity beyond the traditional parameters of the grape, enhancing both mouthfeel and finish in the bottled wine. With notes of grapefruit zest, apricot, thyme, smoky flint, ripe cantaloupe, and lemongrass, this wine is creamy, focused, and energetic, finishing with the slightest kiss of grassy herbs. Staggeringly complex, this is some exceptional sauvignon blanc that I’d expect to pay three times the price if it was from Sancerre or even Napa. With a 95 and double 92s, these scores confirm that this is a remarkable achievement for the grape… But the PRICE?!?! Grab a couple of bottles...you won’t regret it!