Nautilus Marlaborough Sauvignon Blanc 2023

Winery Background and History

Nautilus Estate, founded in 1985 in Marlborough, New Zealand, was among the early pioneers of Sauvignon Blanc in the region—a time when only about 80 wineries existed. Today, though the region has grown to nearly 700 wineries, Nautilus remains small, family-owned, and deeply committed to crafting expressive, balanced wines inspired by the natural beauty of the Nautilus shell  .

Producer and Wine Maker

Nautilus Estate is under the ownership of Hill‑Smith Family Estates, a partnership that provides solid support while allowing the brand to maintain its independent approach. Winemaker Clive Jones, a steadfast advocate of quality and terroir expression, focuses on site selection, lees work, and texture to craft wines with palate weight and concentration  .

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Sauvignon Blanc fruit is sourced from certified Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand vineyards planted on stony, free-draining soils. These result in low-vigour, early-ripening vines with intense flavor development. The vineyard average age is around 20 years, cane‑pruned, with northern exposure and yields kept low to enhance quality and depth  . Marlborough’s cool climate, high sunlight, and free-draining soils further contribute to aromatic intensity and freshness  .

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes were harvested at night and machine‑harvested to preserve freshness. Fermentation occurred in stainless steel at cool temperatures, using both non‑Saccharomyces and aromatic yeasts to provide texture and aromatic intensity. After fermentation, the wine was aged on its lees for five months in stainless steel, which contributes creaminess and integration—resulting in a rich yet precise palate  .

Tasting Notes

The 2023 Nautilus Sauvignon Blanc is expressive yet balanced, with creamy mouthfeel, striking intensity, and palate length. Aromas include waxy citrus, stone-fruit, and summer garden notes that interplay with a citrus‑pith and herbal thread; acidity provides refreshing “crunch” and a food‑friendly structure  . Other tasting impressions describe intense aromas of lemongrass, blackcurrant buds, and ripe grapefruit  .

Food & Wine Pairing

This high-acid, fresh-flavored wine pairs beautifully with seafood and vegetarian dishes. It can stand up to dishes with chili, while its herbal and citrus elements complement Asian flavors like Thai basil and lemongrass  .

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled, around 8–10 °C (46–50 °F) to showcase its freshness, threaded acidity, and aromatic clarity. Use a standard white wine glass to allow the aromas and texture to express fully. (Specific temperature advice wasn’t found, so this is based on typical best practice for Sauvignon Blanc.)

Storage and Aging Potential

This Sauvignon Blanc’s structure, lees‑derived creaminess, and depth suggest it can age gracefully for several years. The lower yields and intense flavors contribute to its age-worthiness  .

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Sauvignon Blanc  .

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 13.5% ABV  .

Scores

• James Suckling: 91 (2024 vintage, but indicative)—detailed, classy with green-apple, cassis, juniper notes 

• Wine Enthusiast: 92 (“Best Buy”)—creamy mouthfeel, struck match notes cushioned by waxy citrus and stone‑fruit, great food‑friendly crunch 

• Wine Spectator: 89—lemon thyme, basil, lemon‑lime, pomelo, peach, candied ginger on a juicy frame