Marlborough vs Nelson

All you Kiwi's out there will understand the competition that exists between Marlborough and Nelson. For everyone else, the rivalry may be akin to that between Chelsea FC and Manchester United, or Andy Murray and Nadal.

Sports aside, Marlborough and Nelson are now rivals when it comes to producing top notch Sauvignon Blanc. Marlborough has traditionally lead the way for producing amazing Sauvignon Blanc with brands such as Villa Maria, Oyster Bay and Montana now staples on most wine store shelves.

There are many reasons why Marlborough is so well suited to Sauvignon Blanc. The soils in the region are exceptionally well draining, which leads to slight stress of the vine. This is perfect as the water that is available is sent straight to the grape and aids in concentrating the fruit flavours.

Lots of sunshine hours are also essential for wine production and Marlborough certainly has this. In fact this is where the rivalry between Marlborough and Nelson begins. Every year the town with the most sunshine hours in New Zealand is announced on the 6pm National News. Most of the time Marlborough just sneaks through, however Nelson is never far behind.

So, Nelson has lots of sunshine hours, is only an hours drive down the road from Marlborough, and has an undulating landscape - which is possibly the main difference between Marlborough and Nelson. Many vineyards in Marlborough are planted on the flat or gentle slopes whereas Nelson utilises its steeper slopes and valleys. This is perfect for accentuating the sunshine hours that are available as vines on North facing slopes will get longer sunshine hours that those on flat land. The slopes also help with drainage as well as frost protection through air currents drifting down the slopes.

Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough are known for their vibrant and punchy gooseberry and grassy flavours. These are also apparent in Nelson Sauvignon Blanc but to a slightly lesser extent, with tropical fruits often shining through.

Bargains of the moment are The Reach Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 75cl
Special Offer - 33% off a case of 6, £34.02, from Tesco wine online www.Tesco.com/wine

"A classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, with passion fruit, guava and gooseberry flavours...'

For a Nelson option, give the Old Coach Rd Sauvignon Blanc a whirl. Available from Union Market in Fulham, this wine is fab. Tropical and citrus fruit dominate with just a hint of gooseberry. Super clean and fresh, although a tad pricier at £9.50. www.unionmarket.co.uk/wine-online

Lots to try!

I'm not sure if you have all noticed but there are a lot of 'half price' wines on supermarket shelves at the moment and all retailing for £4.99. Next week I will be investigating if these wines were ever worth their full £9.99 price.

Till next week, happy drinking!