Dog Point Vineyard is not the most romantic sounding winery in the world. The name comes from the pack of wild dogs (former herding and farm dogs) that used to live in the area and attack local livestock. Well, at least that makes it a little more interesting.
Dog Point is located in the Marlborough area of New Zealand, known worldwide as one the best areas for growing Sauvignon Blanc. In fact, Sauvignon Blanc is virtually the only grape grown in Marlborough. With so many different wineries producing Sauvignon Blanc in New Zealand, it can be difficult to distinguish the good ones from those that are simply passable. With that in mind, we will turn a critical eye to the 2009 Dog Point Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc.
With a light straw colour edging toward just a hint of green, the eye is drawn toward this Sauvignon Blanc as much as the nose is. The nose is slightly floral, with a lemongrass scent garnished with a hint of citrus zest.
As with any good example of this varietal, the body is full of herbal tones. The citrus here continues and veers towards more tangerine and less lemon. Also, the crisp acidity does drop off slightly, and may be more appealing for those who favor less acidic wines.
It finishes dry and with medium length.
Although not one of the best that New Zealand has to offer, the Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc is a very nice wine. Refreshing, easy-drinking, and not too acidic, it is very approachable. The price point is also reasonable, which is never a bad thing for such a everyday appropriate wine.
Synopsis:
Availability: Good
Price: Average ~$22
D’s Rating: 3.5/5
Notes: Good example of the wine that put New Zealand on everyone’s wine radar. Not too acidic, it is almost too easy-drinking.
dustonthebottle 