Chair of the organising committee and Pernod Ricard Chief Winemaker, Patrick Materman with award-winning World of Wearable Art designs, which will feature at the event.
New Zealand’s most popular wine export will be celebrated in style at the first ever International Sauvignon Blanc Celebration, held in Marlborough from 1-3 February.
The sold-out event is attracting over three hundred producers and wine experts from around the world. Attendees will have an opportunity to take part in tasting and discussion sessions, as well as taking a journey through diverse regional styles, and the range of winemaking techniques that are used to produce this sought-after wine.
Sauvignon Blanc grapes were first planted in Marlborough in 1975. Since then, the variety has ballooned in popularity and now makes up 70% of New Zealand’s overall wine production.
From humble beginnings, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is now a $1.1 billion dollar export earner for the country, and has been recognised by experts around the world for its unique and distinguished characteristics.
Many of the guests attending the celebration are devoted fans of the New Zealand style of Sauvignon Blanc. Renowned English wine writer Oz Clarke is on record as stating Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc to be one of the most important wine styles to emerge in the 20th century.
The celebration will focus on the diversity of Sauvignon Blanc styles being produced in the eight countries represented. During the event guests will be treated to a showcase of New Zealand and International Sauvignon Blanc, fantastic Marlborough scenery and a smorgasbord of locally sourced food.
