In the picturesque heart of the Marlborough region of New Zealand lies the renowned Hunters winery. Since its inception more than 30 years ago, the winery has earned an international reputation for its exceptional wines, particularly its outstanding Sauvignon Blanc. With a rich history, an impressive selection of grape varieties and a diversity of soil types, Hunters is a true treasure in the wine world.
History:
The story of Hunters began in 1979 when founder Ernie Hunter planted the first vines on the land. At that time, Marlborough was still relatively unknown as a wine region, but Ernie recognized the potential of this stunning landscape. He experimented with different grape varieties and quickly gained recognition for his Sauvignon Blanc wines, which stood out for their remarkable freshness and intensity. Today, the Hunter family continues Ernie’s legacy and continues to produce wines of the highest quality.
Grape Varieties:
Hunters prides itself on its wide selection of grape varieties that reflect the terroir of Marlborough. In addition to the acclaimed Sauvignon Blanc, the estate also grows Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Each variety is carefully selected and cultivated in perfect harmony with the soil and climate conditions of the region. This approach allows Hunters to produce wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the growing region while highlighting the personality of each grape variety.
The different soil types:
The diversity of soil types in Marlborough is a critical factor in the outstanding quality of Hunters’ wines. The region is known for its loamy soils, which provide excellent drainage and allow the vines to penetrate deep into the earth. This gives the grapes complexity and a wide range of flavors. There are also stony soils, which contribute to the minerality of the wines, and alluvial soils, known for their fertility and versatility. The combination of these different soil types provides ideal conditions for the growth of the vines and contributes to the finesse and elegance of the wines.
The owners:
The Hunter family plays a crucial role in the winery’s success story. Jane Hunter, the widow of Ernie Hunter, took over the management of the winery after his death, bringing her own passion and expertise to the table. She is a respected figure in the wine industry and has received numerous awards for her contributions. She is supported by her children, who are also actively involved in the winery and continue the family tradition. Together they are dedicated to producing wines of the highest quality.
The Sauvignon Blanc and Marlborough:
No article about Hunters Winery would be complete without mention of the famous Sauvignon Blanc that thrives in the Marlborough region. Marlborough has made a name for itself around the world and is considered a leading growing region for Sauvignon Blanc. The unique climate with long sunny days and cool nights gives the grapes their distinctive freshness, vibrant acidity and intense flavors. Hunter’s Sauvignon Blanc is a prime example of this exceptional style, with notes of gooseberry, citrus and fresh grass. Each sip transports the palate to the fascinating Marlborough landscape.
Conclusion:
Hunters is a winery of note in Marlborough, New Zealand. With a rich history, a variety of grape varieties, diverse soil types, and dedicated family leadership, the winery is a symbol of quality and excellence. Hunters wines, especially the incomparable Sauvignon Blanc, stand out for their character, freshness and outstanding flavors. For wine lovers, a visit to Hunters is an unforgettable experience that offers insight into the terroir and craftsmanship of Marlborough winemaking.
2021 Sauvignon Blanc
Hunters Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough captivates with its vibrant character. On the nose, the wine presents a burst of aromatic intensity, with notes of freshly cut grass, ripe gooseberries, and zesty citrus fruits. With each sip, the palate is enlivened by crisp acidity, showcasing flavours of tropical passion fruit, tangy grapefruit, and a hint of herbaceousness. The wine’s refreshing and lively nature lingers, leaving a clean and invigorating finish. Hunters Sauvignon Blanc exemplifies the essence of Marlborough, delivering a delightful expression of this renowned varietal.
