Te Pa 'Koha' Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand

From vineyards steeped in centuries of family heritage, the 2023 te Pa 'Koha' Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand captures the vibrant coastal character of Wairau Bar while delivering a bright, approachable style that reflects New Zealand’s relaxed yet refined lifestyle. Expressive and refreshing, this Sauvignon Blanc honors both the land’s natural purity and the MacDonald family's deep roots.

Product Details:

• Owner: Haysley MacDonald
• Grape Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Alcohol Content: 13.0% ABV
• Vineyard Sources: 66% Wairau Bar (Lower Wairau), 18% Redwood Hills Vineyard (Awatere Valley), 16% Alabama Vineyard (Wairau Valley)
• Farming Practices: Certified Sustainable, Vegan
• Vinification: Harvested in the cool of morning; fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks with 2% barrel fermentation; blended from multiple vineyard blocks
• Aging: Stainless steel

Sensory Description:

This Sauvignon Blanc opens with vibrant aromas of gooseberry, white florals, and citrus, layered with hints of nettle, guava, melon, and mineral undertones. The palate bursts with flavors of nectarine, pink grapefruit, and tropical passionfruit, balanced by bright acidity and delicate blackcurrant and aniseed notes. The finish is crisp and clean, accented by lingering citrus zest, a touch of spice, and a fine chalky minerality.

Awards & Accolades:

• 90 Points – Cameron Douglas MS

Winemaker's Background:

Te Pa Family Vineyards, founded by Haysley MacDonald, traces its roots back more than 800 years to Māori ancestors who first settled the Wairau Bar. The MacDonald family’s profound connection to this land continues to guide their stewardship of vineyards that lie just meters from the South Pacific Ocean. Today, the Koha label represents a smaller-production range that showcases the region’s distinct terroir while honoring the family’s commitment to balance, respect for nature, and cultural legacy. Blending modern winemaking with ancient roots, Te Pa delivers wines that reflect both history and innovation.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve well-chilled at 8–10°C (46–50°F) in a white wine glass to highlight its lifted aromatics and crisp vibrancy. This Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with freshly shucked oysters, grilled scallops topped with anchovy-mint-coriander dressing, pan-seared snapper, or Thai-style seafood salads. For vegetarian options, enjoy with goat cheese and arugula salad, or spring vegetable risotto. Soft cheeses such as feta or fresh chèvre complement the wine’s bright fruit and minerality, making it ideal for casual lunches or elegant seafood dinners.

The 2023 te Pa 'Koha' Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand, offers a lively, generous expression of Marlborough’s coastal vineyards, balancing vibrant fruit and refreshing acidity with purity and elegance in every glass.