The Finest Wine from Smoky River is Now Available in Australia

The ancient riverbed of the old Opawa is home to one of the most serene vineyards in New Zealand. Located in Marlborough, New Zealand, Opawa boasts excellent cool-climate wines. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of this vineyard and its outstanding 2020 Sauvignon Blanc.

Below, you can discover Opawa, the Marlborough region and of course – tasting notes. If you are looking for a meal to pair this Sauvignon Blanc with, we highly recommend seafood. Cook up some creamy, garlic prawns or barbecued squid, and take a sip of Opawa’s Sauv Blanc. You will not regret it!

Not too fussed on Sauvignon Blanc or wanting to pick up a few different bottles to suit everyone? Opawa Wines are also well-known for making Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Scroll down for more information.

Opawa Vineyard, Marlborough, New Zealand

The traditional Maori name, Opawa translates as ‘smoky river’ in English(*1). It is quite a fitting name as the vineyard sits on the ancient riverbed of the old Opawa river in Rapaura(*1,2). Rapaura is situated in the world-renowned winemaking region of Marlborough.

If you are planning a trip to New Zealand, this region, in the northernmost area of the South Island and is worth a visit(*3). The 25-hectare vineyard is surrounded by(*1,4):

• Fertile farming lands.
• The Wairau Valley.
• Some of nature’s absolute best hiking trails and scenic trips.

Growing Conditions at Opawa

The stony soils of the riverbed are perfectly suited for growing grapevines (and not much else!). The vines drain freely thanks to the gravel and loam soil. Nutrients from decomposed fish and other organic materials provide essential minerals and ideal PH levels(*5). During the day, the beautiful Marlborough sunshine warms the vines. The riverbed radiates this heat during the evenings – making for perfectly ripe fruit(*1,2). Many of the vines are harvested during the night to maintain optimal levels of freshness and aroma(*1).

2020 Opawa Sauvignon Blanc Tasting Notes and Review

What should I expect from Opawa’s Sauvignon Blanc?

You should expect aromas that leap out of the glass from this mouth-watering wine(*1,6). This Sauvignon Blanc is refreshing, making it perfect as a spring or summer aperitif – or pair with barbecued seafood.

Aroma: Fresh lychees, passionfruit and freshly picked herbs(*1,6,7).
Palate: Refreshing and intense palate of citrus and passionfruit are continuous(*1,6,7).
Finish: Well-balanced with fresh, crisp acidity, and an excellent, long refreshing finish(*1,6,7).
Value: Excellent value. The 2020 Opawa Sauvignon Blanc can be purchased for as low as $19.99 per bottle.

What Other Wines Does Opawa Make?

If you are looking for more brilliant wines from New Zealand, Opawa have you covered. We recommend Opawa Wines’ crisp 2020 Pinot Gris and their medium-bodied 2018 Pinot Noir – which are also sensational value for money.

Next time you are in store and looking for a nice Sauvignon Blanc or NZ wine, definitely pick up a bottle from Opawa.

If you are looking for other wine suggestions, please don’t hesitate to browse our website or contact us.

References

*1. Opawa Wines. Opawa. 2021.
*2. Summer Hill Wine Shop. Opawa Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Marlborough New Zealand. YouTube video. 2021.
*3. New Zealand Tourism. Marlborough. 2021.
*4. Marlborough New Zealand Tourism. Marlborough. 2021.
*5. Sommeliers Choice Awards. Soil Types That Matter For Grape Growing. Beverage Trade Network. 2021.
*6. Opawa. Sauvignon Blanc 2020. Nd.
*7. Summer Hill Wine Shop. 2020 Opawa Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough. 2021.