Inaugural International Sauvignon Blanc Celebration launches in Marlborough

By Mathew Lyons

Published: 11 January, 2016

Marlborough in New Zealand is to host the world's first International Sauvignon Blanc Celebration.

The event is expected to attract over 300 guests from 18 countries, who will have the chance to sample upwards of 400 different expressions of the varietal.

As well as New Zealand, wine makers from Australia, Austria, Chile, France, Italy, South Africa and the US will be exhibiting their wines.

Visitors will be able to explore the diverse regionality of Sauvignon Blanc, as well as its stylistic adaptability through tastings of different vinicultural techniques, among them botrytised, wild fermented and low alcohol.

Sauvignon Blanc is New Zealand's principal wine export, and wine is the countries sixth largest export commodity.

The 35th annual New Zealand Trade Tasting in London this month is dedicated to a celebration of the varietal, which has an 11% share of the UK wine market.

The International Sauvignon Blanc Celebration will run from Febuary 1 to 3.

Other attractions for attendees include a garden party at Marlborough's historic Timara Lodge, a train trip through the Awatere Valley, a Kiwiana beach party, and a gala dinner with a one-off World of Wearable Art show.

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