Starborough Sons of the Soil Sauvignon Blanc

Originally a sheep farm these days Starborough, owned and operated by the Jones family, are producers of award winning Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

Jones brothers Andrew and James run the gig, they’re the “Sons of the Soil”. Andrew carries the family farming tradition with crops and livestock. Viticulturist James runs the wine side of things with some help from a pretty on to it winemaker called David Clouston (he’s also the winemaker from Two Rivers and Black Cottage).

Scoring 92/100 and a Top Value Award with Master of Wine Bob Campbell who said “Vibrant, concentrated high-energy sauvignon blanc at the grassy end of the flavour spectrum with green capsicum, gooseberry, lime zest, pineapple, and passionfruit among the more prominent characters.”

And in his 5 star review Michael Cooper said “This label typically offers very good value. Estate-grown in the Awatere Valley, the bright, light lemon/green 2023 vintage (5*) is fresh, mouthfilling, vigorous and aromatic. A punchy, intensely varietal wine, it is ripely herbaceous, with passionfruit and lime flavours, a slightly salty streak, good acid spine, and excellent weight, vibrancy and length.”

This label has often flown a little bit under the radar over the years and for a snip under $20 delivers plenty of bang for your buck.