Paua Rock - Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand

When the last leaf has fallen, when the evenings feel cool and a hint of winter is right across the lawn, you'll want to reach for this wine and remember the warm breezes of summer, the smell of fresh-mown grass, and the sound of children laughing in the evening sprinkled with fireflies.  That's what the fresh tastes of the 2007 Paua Rock Sauvignon Blanc can do.   Even with a fire in the fireplace, if served appropriately chilled, and accompanied by green grapes or a sharp cheese, the Paua Rock will bring summer memories back, if only for just an evening.

If you are feeling snobby about your wine consumption, there are three things you should know about this wine before we go any further:

1 - it is a nice sauvignon blanc from the Marlborough region of NewZealand:

2 - Yes, it comes in a twist-cap bottle.  And I'm ok with that.

3 - It's not overly expensive.  Generally can be purchased for about $9.99 a bottle.  And I'm ok with that.

Prior to this summer, I didn't know that New Zealand produced wines of any sort.  the only thing I knew about New Zealand was what I learned from American movies and "Survivor".  I was a Sonoma, Napa and white Burgundy snob.  But since discovering the Paua Rock S.B, I have come to learn that the Marlborough region of New Zealand began producing wines in the mid-1970's and the region is quite well known for their sauvignon blancs.   Their S.B.'s are excellent for a good reason - they have the best weather for white grape growing - hot sunny days and cool nights that extend for a longer growing season than we find here in the U.S.

I absolutely fell in love with this 2007 S.B for a couple of reasons.  On a hot summer day, chill this wine on ice for the most crisp, refreshing taste you'll experience as an adult.  You'll get a sensory overload of citrus in your nose and on your tongue with your first sip.  Absolutely swirl it in your glass and breathe in the fresh scent of grapefruit and grass.  It's a beautiful combination.  Then take just a small sip for your first taste.  I love the flavor of the grapefruit, it is so clean and bright, it makes a perfect mid-afternoon drink that leads into the early evening.   There is no oakiness at all, so if you're looking for a dry S.B, this is not your choice.  The Paua Rock has a fresh and delicate taste, yet it is also mildly complicated.  The taste and fragrance of the fruit blossoms in your glass, and ultimately in your mouth.