Marlborough Sunshine: Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc

Tasting Notes

Pale straw with green highlights. Aromas pop with gooseberry, passionfruit, lime zest, lemongrass and green herbs—think jalapeño leaf and tomato foliage from Awatere, plus grapefruit and tropical vibes from Wairau. The palate is crisp, light‑to‑medium body, juicy and herb‑bright—lime, green apple, starfruit—with elegant vegetal notes and lemongrass freshness. The finish zags with salinity and zingy lift rather than grapefruity squash.

Meet the Winemaker

Founded in 1961 by Sir George Fistonich, Villa Maria is Marlborough royalty. The Private Bin line blends fruit from Awatere Valley’s cool breezes and Wairau’s warmer days, delivering consistent freshness and tropical elegance. Made with sustainability in their DNA and zero pretension. 

Wine Specs

• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc

• Vintage(s): various (Private Bin is a house style, typically 2022–2024)

• Region: Marlborough, New Zealand (blend of Awatere & Wairau Valleys)

• Aging: stainless tank, no oak

• ABV: 12.5% 

• Bottle Size: 750 ml

• Serving Temp: 8 °C / 46 °F

Critic Reviews

• Tastings (Beverage Testing Institute): 92 pts – “jalapeño, cassis leaf, gooseberry, tomato leaf… satiny, crisp, dry… refreshing, carefree finish.” 

• Decanter (2024): Praised for “intense gooseberry, guava and mango aromatics… vibrant, textured, excellent length and crispness.” 

• Wine Enthusiast: Featured as a “Best Buy” – “just what Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc should be.” 

Food Pairings

• Citrus-dressed shrimp or ceviche

• Fresh goat-cheese salad with herbs

• Thai chicken satay or lemongrass mussels

• Light sushi or seaweed salad

Why You Need This Bottle

This is Marlborough magic without the price tag. Villa Maria’s Private Bin delivers that gooseberry‑lime hit you crave, balanced with herbs, passionfruit and crisp acidity. It’s consistent, crowd-pleasing, and breezy enough to sip solo on a patio—or pair with all the light, bright fare.

Want to sip sunshine? Grab a bottle of Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc—chill it, pop it, and enjoy. Free shipping on 6+ bottles or club member deals—add to cart and welcome summer in a glass.