Brightwater Lord Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc 2020

Brightwater Vineyards may be one of the smallest estates on New Zealand’s South Island, but its world-class wines have earned it a (well-deserved) reputation as one of Nelson’s premier boutiques. And they have the trophies, golds and 5-star ratings to prove it (not to mention their winemaker, Tony Southgate, was named Winemaker of the Year at the country’s top competition, the Royal Easter Show Wine Awards).

This exclusive, limited-edition cuvée is no exception. Leading critic Sam Kim rated it 5 stars and 94 points: “A powerful expression; the instantly appealing bouquet shows passionfruit, green rockmelon [cantaloupe] and kaffir lime characters. It’s concentrated and persistent on the palate, delivering terrific fruit purity combined with bright acidity, finishing impressively long and attractive.”

With such a succulent flavor profile, it’s obvious Tony has grape selection down to a science. For his exhilarating 2020, he picked the best fruit from his three favorite vineyard sites—one brings intense, ripe fruit flavor; one exudes vibrant aromas; and the third delivers a distinctive mineral-herbaceous quality. He named the mouthwatering result after famed scientist and native Nelson son, Lord Ernest Rutherford. Pair with classic goat cheese or serve ice cold as a tongue-tingling aperitif.

Of course, we have to make a quick note about the vintage. While 2020 is one of the best years in New Zealand’s history, it also produced some of the lowest yields. That mean the quality is great—as you’ll taste—but there’s very little wine to go around. Add to that a tiny 2021 harvest, a shortage of harvesters and skyrocketing global demand, and there will be next-to-no Sauvignon soon. You’d to well to secure this fabulous 2020 before we run out. (And we definitely will!)