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All about New-Zealand wines > Marlborough region
The story of Marlborough starts with location. The region, situated at 41° latitude south on the north end of the South Island, holds the distinction of being one of New Zealand's sunniest and driest regions. The average daily temperature in summer reaches nearly 24°C or 75°F resulting in a high heat summation for the growing season.
During the daytime, strong and warm nor’west winds from the mountains prevail, encouraging flower fertility and ripening. In the evenings, the temperature shifts. Clear cool nights from ocean breezes keep acid levels high in the grapes. This diurnal shift is one of the critical components contributing to the intensity of our Marlborough wines.
Topography also plays an important part. Mountains to the north, south and west protect our vineyards from rain and clouds during the growing season. Spring frosts that could damage vineyards are rare.
The purity of Kim Crawford wines directly reflects the history and pristine nature of the vineyard soils. Marlborough's valley floor was mainly formed by glacial activity. River flooding deposited glacial outwash that formed a level plain with deep sedimentary soils varying from washed stone to gravel, alluvial silt, loess (wind-blown silt), and clay. Most of the soils drain freely.
Colour
Light straw with yellow and green hues.
Aroma
Citrus and tropical fruits backed by characteristic herbaceous notes for which Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is renowned.
Palate
An exuberant wine brimming with juicy acidity and fruit sweetness, providing a balanced flavour profile. The finish is fresh, zesty, and lingering.
Food pairings
Pairs brilliantly with fresh oysters, asparagus, lobster, or summer salads.
Seven distinct sub-regions make up Marlborough, and the differences among them hold the key to blending intense and complex Kim Crawford Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. All of them are predominant Sauvignon Blanc
AWATERE - Flavours: Tomato leaf, citrus, nettle
SOUTHERN VALLEYS - Flavours: Gooseberry, white currant
BLIND RIVER - Flavours: Tomato leaf, grapefruit, gooseberry
LOWER WAIRAU - Flavours: Melon, citrus peel, white peach, grapefruit
CENTRAL WAIRAU/RAPAURA - Flavours: Passion fruit, grapefruit
WAIHOPAI - Flavours: Green capsicum/ bell pepper, gooseberry
RARANGI - Flavours: Melon, peach, flint, floral
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