Gold Medal – International Wine Challenge 2020
Winery notes (2020 Vintage)
"Named after the majestic Catalina flying boats that once flew across the vast Marlborough Sounds, Catalina Sounds produces wines that are unique with minimum intervention and are true to their vineyard sites while capturing the best of the region.
The wine displays subtle tropical fruit, granny smith apple and a hint of summer nettles with underlying spice from time in large oak cuve. The palate is initially soft and textural then carried by refreshing acidity to a very long lingering finish.
The fruit for the 2020 Catalina Sounds Sauvignon Blanc is predominantly sourced from our estate vineyard, Sound of White in the Waihopai Valley (39%) and five grower vineyards in Fairhall, Renwick and the central Wairau plain. VB Premium (17%), Cresswell (12%), Allen (12%), Bond (8%), Linford (12%)."
95/100 Matthew Stubbs MW, IWC, November 2020 (2020 Vintage)
"There’s a real intensity to this wine showing off the wonderful 2020 vintage. Showing off green apple and great acidity."
5 Stars, 95/100 & Ranked #4 of 71 Sauvignons, Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review, December 2020 (2020 Vintage)
"Attractive, ethereal sauvignon blanc with passionfruit, gooseberry, melon and citrus-lime flavours supported by deliciously fruity acidity. A seductive sauvignon with an impeccable balance of acidity and subliminal sweetness."
5 Stars & 95/100 Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, January 2021 (2020 Vintage)
"Offering excellent fruit purity and vibrancy, the wine shows feijoa, kiwifruit, nectarine and kaffir lime notes on the nose, leading to a powerful yet poised palate offering terrific fruit intensity backed by bright acidity, making it mouth-watering and deliciously appealing. At its best: now to 2026."
95/100 Gourmet Traveller Wine, February 2021 (2020 Vintage)
"Almost 40% from the estate vineyard in the Waihopai Valley with the balance from five growers in Fairhall, Renwick and the central Wairu Plain. Attractive and ethereal with passionfruit, gooseberry, melon and citrus/lime favours supported by fruity acidity."