Press Release
22 November 2024
Whitehaven’s Sauvignon Blanc 2023 has just been named in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of 2024. Whitehaven’s Sauvignon Blanc 2023 has just been crowned one of Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of 2024, landing an impressive #41 on the list. This prestigious list, curated annually since 1988, celebrates wines that exemplify quality, value, and excitement as a winery to watch. Whitehaven shines brightly as one of only four New Zealand wines featured on the 2024 Top 100 list. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that Whitehaven is the sole Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc on the list, showcasing the region's stellar reputation for producing exceptional wines.
Wine Spectator defines the Top 100 list as “a diverse group—ranging from emerging labels and regions to traditional estates exploring new directions—and all generate the excitement we call the “X-factor.” According to Chief Winemaker Peter Jackson, Whitehaven’s X-factor stems from the company’s unwavering commitment to quality without compromise, even at larger volumes. The result is a layered and beautifully balanced Sauvignon Blanc that captures the essence of Marlborough’s three sub regions. “Aromatically, the wine reflects the sub regional diversity that Whitehaven sources its fruit from, taking in parcels from all three Marlborough sub regions. A large portion of fruit in our blend comes from the Awatere Valley which creates a bedrock of ripe green flavours and freshness upon which we layer aromatic notes and textures from other areas. All fruit is carefully combined to create, in our view, the quintessential Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, with intensity, vibrancy and concentration.”
Sue White, co-founder of Whitehaven, expresses her pride in the accolade, crediting the entire team for their dedication to crafting wines that resonate with consumers. She highlights that their success stems from a deep commitment to quality, ensuring consistency in the Whitehaven style vintage after vintage.
The announcement coincides with the release of Whitehaven’s Barrel Fermented ‘Block 11’ Sauvignon Blanc 2023, which has been selected for Appellation Marlborough Wine’s coveted 2024 Annual Collection—the only alternative style of Sauvignon Blanc to make this year’s collection.
