The Vinous New Zealand report has just been published and we were cock-a-hoop to see that Blank Canvas, a long-time favourite Kiwi producer of ours, came top of the white wines for its Abstract Sauvignon Blanc2021, which received a chart-topping 96 points. The winemaker Matt Thompson says of it, “If classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is all fruit and zing, Abstract exists in another dimension altogether. It’s our ‘Savoury Blanc’, where texture and aromatic complexity bedazzle.” It’s a wine that should not be missed if you like serious white Bordeaux or exploring the parameters of original and inspiring Sauvignon Blanc. 13.5% alc. Drink now - 2032.

Vinous: “White Bordeaux fans, get your coat; you've scored. The 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Abstract is a gorgeous, rich, full-bodied mouthful of intensely concentrated barrel-fermented Sauvignon. This is curvy, suave and sophisticated. Its ripe blackcurrant and fennel aromas meet lees-derived savory notes and nutty oak characters (aged in puncheons, 15% new). The 2021 has substance as well as fine acidity that provided mouthwatering refreshment. Its long finish is laced with layers of fragrance and texture. This has the complexity to age well, but it’s delicious now, so why would you wait?” 96 points

JancisRobinson.com: “Flinty and Sauvignon fruit aromas are interwoven. Definite but not excessive note of struck match. Intense notes of ripe green fruits and blackcurrant bud. The interplay of smoky reduction and bright fruit continues on the palate, mouth-filling and mouth-watering at the same time. Intense flavours balanced by the creamy texture (roundness) from the oak, and the merest hint of oak spice. The flinty character is marked but not too much on the long finish. Ageing slowly and beautifully, which is not always the case with Sauvignon Blanc, and has a way to go. Complex and harmonious with a long smoky finish. (JH)” 17.5 points

Stephen Wong MW: “Stunning aromatics of blackcurrant pastille, wild blackberry bush, white pepper and angelica leap from the glass as wet river stone, oyster-shell and nutmeg enter their wake. The palate is just coming around now, displaying its full weight of enveloping sesame paste flavours around fresh, crisp greengage plum, capsicum and vine tomato. Layered, intricate and incredibly long, this youthful wine brings together wild-ferment funk, tangy, saline acidity, vibrant fruit and subtle oak with herbaceousness and minerality in a ballet of contrasts. Enjoy over the next few years as it reveals more of its mysteries." 95 points

James Suckling: “This is so salty with a fresh-sea aspect to the lemon-rind and green-melon undertones. Medium body. Lovely texture and a long, persistent finish. A sophisticated single-vineyard sauvignon.” 95 points

Cameron Douglas MS: “Fantastic, a developing bouquet of barrel-ferment and fruit intensity, spice and power, a wine in a perfect window for drinking, scents of baked apple and lees, peach and soft wood spice highlights, a nettle and black currant quality then a dried herb extract. A satin touch gives way quickly to firm texture from acidity and tannins, lees and a soft wood smoke quality. Complex and lengthy a delicious wine to drink on its own or with select cuisine. Best from day of purchase through 2029+.” 95 points

Bob Campbell MW: “Intense, aromatic sauvignon with pronounced passion fruit/tropical fruit flavours together with grapefruit, red capsicum, oyster shell and gooseberry supported by vibrant juicy acidity that helps drive a lengthy finish.” 95 points

Michael Cooper: “Designed as an ageworthy 'Savoury Blanc', the classy 2021 vintage (5*) was hand-harvested in the Holdaway Vineyard, at Dillons Point, and fermented and matured on its yeast lees for 15 months in French oak puncheons (15 per cent new).  Bright lemon/green, with a rich, savoury bouquet, it is mouth filling, with concentrated, ripe, tropical fruit flavours, gentle mealy notes, finely integrated oak, and excellent vigour and complexity. A top example of barrel-fermented Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, it's a drink now or cellaring proposition." 5 Stars