Region and Vineyards
Situated in Marlborough's Wairau Valley, Dog Point's vineyards lie on gently rolling silty-clay loams interspersed with gravelly subsoils. This composition enhances both drainage and mineral character, yielding grapes with intensity and fine acidity. The valley's combination of high sunshine hours and cool nighttime temperatures contributes to exceptional flavour concentration and freshness — a hallmark of Dog Point's Sauvignon Blanc.
The 2024 season was notable for its record-breaking drought, with only 32 mm of rainfall during summer — the driest in 94 years. Warm, dry conditions and abundant sunshine led to excellent ripeness, while cool nights in late autumn preserved the natural acidity and aromatic complexity. Average vine age of 26 years, with plantings dating back to 1984, provided depth and concentration rarely achieved in younger vineyards.
Winemaking
Harvested between 14 and 27 March 2024, the fruit was hand-picked and whole-bunch pressed to preserve delicacy and aromatic integrity. Following a gentle cold settling, 85% of the juice underwent wild fermentation with indigenous yeasts, imparting texture and subtle savoury nuance.
The wine was aged for four months in stainless steel, retaining its pure fruit expression. It was bottled without fining, in keeping with Dog Point's minimalist philosophy and certified organic practices. The result is a Sauvignon Blanc that balances vibrant freshness with textural depth, showcasing both the terroir's precision and the estate's craftsmanship.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Pale straw with brilliant clarity.
- Aroma: Pure and lifted bouquet of citrus—grapefruit, lemon, lime, and mandarin—layered with subtle gravel and flint nuances that add a mineral dimension.
- Palate: Juicy and mouthwatering, unfolding from bright citrus into ripe stone fruit with generous mid-palate weight. The finish is long, zesty, and crystalline, defined by high natural acidity and mineral tension.
Did you know?
Dog Point Vineyard is named after a hill overlooking the Wairau Valley where shepherds once rounded up stray dogs — a nod to the region's pastoral history. Founders Ivan Sutherland and James Healy, both former Cloudy Bay luminaries, established Dog Point in 2002, creating one of Marlborough's most respected organic estates.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Goat's cheese tart: The wine's acidity cuts through the richness, while its citrus lift complements the tangy flavours.
- Grilled asparagus with lemon butter: Echoes the Sauvignon's zesty citrus and minerality.
- Ceviche of snapper or scallops: Enhances the wine's freshness and texture.
- Thai green curry: The lively acidity and citrus intensity balance the spice and coconut cream beautifully.
