Our Marlborough Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay

Located at the far north of the South Island, Marlborough
is New Zealand’s most famous wine region. Its global reputation rests on one key grape: Sauvignon Blanc, whose vibrant and aromatic expressions have conquered the world. But Marlborough is not just about brilliant whites: the
region also produces silky Pinot Noirs and refined Chardonnays, perfect for delighting wine enthusiasts.

Terroir and style of Marlborough

Bathed in light, protected by mountains, and refreshed by sea breezes, Marlborough enjoys a unique climate. Warm, sunny days favor ripening, while cool nights preserve acidity and tension. The result: pure, vibrant, and intense wines with an incomparable aromatic identity.

Sauvignon Blanc: Marlborough’s icon

• Profile: explosive aromas of passion fruit, grapefruit, and fresh herbs.
• Style: lively, energetic, with crystalline freshness.
• Why it appeals: it’s the perfect white for those seeking a direct, aromatic, and immediately approachable wine.

Pinot Noir and Chardonnay: Marlborough’s other side

• Pinot Noir: lighter than Central Otago examples, with notes
  of cherry, spices, and a silky texture.
• Chardonnay: precise, taut, with a beautiful balance of fruit and minerality, often compared to the great cool-climate whites.

Our featured producers

🍇 Catalina Sounds

A Marlborough reference, Catalina Sounds perfectly expresses oceanic freshness and the brilliance of the terroir.

• Sauvignon Blanc 2023: lively, aromatic, brilliant.
• Chardonnay 2022: precise, rich, and balanced.
• Pinot Noir 2022: silky and airy, ideal for discovering the region’s red elegance.

🍇 Tai Tira

An approachable and typical Sauvignon Blanc, perfect for exploring Marlborough’s style.

🍇 Sound of White

A more discreet estate producing gastronomic wines:

• Chardonnay 2020: broad and refined.
• Pinot Noir 2020: structured and elegant, with great finesse.

Why choose a Marlborough wine?

• To discover the world’s most famous Sauvignon Blanc.
• To explore another facet of New Zealand through elegant Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.
• To enjoy a style that is accessible, brilliant, and convivial.

Food pairings

• Sauvignon Blanc: oysters, seafood, goat cheese, summer salads.
• Pinot Noir: grilled salmon, roasted poultry, lightly spiced Asian dishes.
• Chardonnay: fine fish, shellfish, creamy dishes.

❓ FAQ – Marlborough Wines

What is the style of Marlborough wines?
Marlborough wines are known for their freshness and aromatic intensity. Sauvignon Blanc is lively and brilliant, with citrus and tropical fruit notes. Pinot Noirs are silky and airy, and Chardonnays are precise and balanced.

Why is Marlborough famous for Sauvignon Blanc?
Sunny days, cool nights, and ocean influence allow Sauvignon Blanc to develop explosive aromas of grapefruit, passion fruit, and fresh herbs. It has become New Zealand’s global signature.

What is the difference between Marlborough and Loire Sauvignon Blanc?
Marlborough Sauvignon Blancs are more exuberant and tropical (passion fruit, lime, fresh herbs) due to the sun and maritime influence. Loire examples, such as Sancerre or Pouilly-Fumé, are more mineral, tense, and floral, with flinty and boxwood notes.

👉 In short: Marlborough impresses with generosity, Loire with finesse.

Which is the best Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc?
There isn’t one “best” Sauvignon Blanc, but there are iconic styles. Catalina Sounds wines stand out for purity and elegance, while other estates emphasize tropical richness or mineral tension. The choice depends on your taste: crisp and citrusy, or full-bodied and exotic.

Which other grapes are grown in Marlborough?
Besides Sauvignon Blanc, the region produces excellent Pinot Noirs (elegant, fruity, light) and refined Chardonnays. These wines offer a more subtle and gastronomic alternative.

What is the difference between Marlborough and Central Otago wines?
Central Otago Pinot Noirs are more powerful and structured, while Marlborough Pinot Noirs are lighter, delicate, and airy. For Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough remains the essential appellation.

What foods pair with Marlborough wines?
Sauvignon Blanc goes perfectly with seafood, grilled fish, sushi, or goat cheese. Pinot Noirs pair with roasted poultry, fine charcuterie, or vegetarian dishes, while Chardonnay complements scallops, risottos, or white meats.

Where to buy Marlborough wine?
You can purchase your Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, or Chardonnay directly on Vinodelice, with an authentic and carefully selected range.

If Marlborough embodies the freshness of the ocean, other vineyards reveal the diversity and finesse of New Zealand
wine. From Martinborough to Central Otago, explore our selection of fine New Zealand wines.