Sandy Cove Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2022

Nobody on the planet can boast the hot streak that Allan Scott is currently enjoying. The legendary New Zealand winemaker, who was the first to plant a vineyard in Marlborough in 1973 has become as important to NZ’s winemaking as Michel Rolland is to France, Alberto Antonini to Italy or some of the other greats.

For decades, he’s set the benchmark for winemaking in New Zealand, whether it be Sauvignon Blanc or any other varietal for that matter, though if there’s one thing NZ is known for it’s their zippy, fruity SBs. In terms of making those, Scott is the absolute best.

It started with his 2020 Allan Scott Sauv Blanc being recognized as one of Wine Spectator’s Top 100 wines. A perennial 90+ pointer, that wasn’t super surprising, though any time a New Zealand Sauv Blanc ends up in the Top 25 (it finished #23) is an occasion worth celebrating.

Luckily, Allan didn’t rest on his laurels. He followed up the 2020 vintage with his 2021 Marlborough SB that ended up winning Wine Spectator’s 2021 Wine Value of the Year – an insanely impressive honor. It really can’t be understated the amount of class, flavor and aromatics that Scott puts into a bottle. Truly unmatched.

Luckily for us, Scott shows no signs of slowing down. I was able to taste the brand new 2022 Sandy Cove Sauvignon Blanc at a tasting, and was completely blown away. I couldn’t find a ton out about the winery, but when I asked who made it, everything made sense – Allan Scott, of course.