The Auswine Forum

Interested in impressions of this vintage.

The wine can be very difficult to source- whether in Australia, Hong Kong or further abroad. Usually plenty of their riesling and pinot about, the sauvignon blanc snapped up quickly.

We were drawn to Palliser after a few great days in Martinborough many years ago. Our wine holiday a north /south affair, so Martinborough our introduction to Kiwi sauvigon blanc. I will have to say, personally, it was not surpassed by the sauvignon blanc from the south. Palliser especially, full and rich, decadent in comparison to the more austere expressions from Marlborough.

Apart from the TN of the 03( if anyone can help), what are the local impressions of Martinborough sb versus Marlborough?

the sauvignon is pretty smart, i prefer the riesling personally, they make a very pretty example.

far too cold to think about sauvignon down this way, the 04s are hitting the shelves - i have yet to even try one!!

Jamie, I've not tasted the Palliser '03 since January. I would not liked to have been put on the spot to differentiate if it was from Martinborough or Marlborough from this vintage. Usually I get strong apple flavours in the Martinborough wines but as well as apples this showed ripe flavours of passionfruit and lychees with lots of juicy citrus and just a hint of that sweaty character that causes much debate in some circles. It should still be drinking very well now if you can get hold of it.
My favourite wine from this region in 2003 is the Borthwick, though from about 20kms further upstream than those vineyards close to Martinborough town.
Cheers,
Sue