Eyes on the Prize

New Zealand vintners play to their strengths, with Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir topping the roster

Simon and Arabella Waghorn peering into stainless steel wine vats
Simon Waghorn works alongside his daughter Arabella in the cellars of their family’s Astrolabe estate to make a range of outstanding wines. (Finn Scott-Kelly)

New Zealand is a fascinating wine region. In just a few decades, this small island nation at the bottom of the world has become one of the most important suppliers of wines to the United States, while also changing the global conversation about Sauvignon Blanc. Read the rest of Wine Spectator senior editor MaryAnn Worobiec’s tasting report for more on recent vintages, including scores and tasting notes for top bottlings and good values in Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and beyond from Felton Road, Craggy Range, Greywacke, Astrolabe, Cloudy Bay and more. 

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