The Marris family are descendants of William de Marisco, who was said to be one of the 35 illegitimate children of King Henry the First. They are pioneers in the wine industry of the Marlborough wine region. Their vineyard is located on the banks of the Waihopai River and on the Southern side of the Wairau Valley. This location consistently enjoys warmer daytime temperatures and lower rainfall than areas to the North. Marisco produces three brands, Fernlands, The Ned and The Kings Series.  

The growing season of vintage 2019 in Marlborough resulted in a smaller than expected yield across the entire region but also delivered intensely flavored fruit of exceptional quality. The winter was unusually warm. Spring brought near perfect conditions for bud burst and canopy establishment while a lack of any significant spring frosts resulted in very high yield predictions. Above average rainfall combined with below average wind and sunshine hours in December meant flowering and fruit set was slightly below earlier predictions.  However, almost drought-like conditions from Christmas onwards meant a dry, hot ripening season allowing the fruit to reach intense levels of flavor and ripeness. It also meant that despite some heavy, late season rain the fruit was in immaculate condition come harvest time and in pristine condition on arrival at the winery. 

TASTING NOTES

A classic style of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, this is aromatic with grassy notes, green melon, gooseberries, and fresh cucumber.  Round and juicy on the palate, showing herbaceous flavors alongside star fruit, passion fruit, pear, and kiwi fruits.  It has medium-plus acidity with a generous and refreshing finish.

FOOD PAIRING

Pair with chicken with lemon flavors, dill or cilantro-inflected dishes, white fish and other light seafood (including oysters and shellfish), garlic or pepper-loaded chicken or vegetable stir-fries, vegetarian dishes with grilled garden vegetables, and composed salads.  Great as an aperitif.

Chicken/Turkey, Fish (white), Fish-full flavored (salmon/tuna), Hors d'oeuvres, Just for Cocktailing, Perfect Aperitif , Shellfish, Vegetables