Wine of the Month: Mount Brown Estates "Wild River" Sauvignon Blanc 2024

Searching for a popular white wine that breaks the mold? Our Wine of the Month is the stunning Mount Brown Wild River Sauvignon Blanc 2024. Hailing from the pristine Waipara Valley in North Canterbury, New Zealand, this vintage is a vibrant masterclass in why this region is becoming the go-to alternative to Marlborough.

Why It’s Our Wine of the Month

The 2024 vintage has been celebrated by critics for its "vibrant and pungent" character. Master Sommelier Cameron Douglas recently awarded it 93 points, praising its enticing bouquet and excellent value. If you are looking to buy white wine that offers premium quality without the premium price tag, this is the bottle to grab this January.

Tasting Notes: The "Passionfruit Bomb"

True to its reputation, the Mount Brown Wild River is often described as a "passionfruit bomb." Here is what you can expect from the 2024 pour:

Aroma: An explosive nose of passionfruit, guava, and lime zest, backed by subtle herbaceous notes of fresh basil and sage.

Palate: Crisp and refreshing with a medium body. You’ll find layers of green apple, tropical fruits, and a stony mineral quality that reflects the old riverbed soils where the vines grow.

Finish: A long, clean, and salivating finish with a "lick of salinity" that makes it incredibly food-friendly.

The Story Behind the "Wild River"

The name isn't just marketing—it’s terroir. The grapes are grown on the stony, well-drained old riverbed soils of the Waipara Valley. This unique landscape, combined with the region's higher temperature variations between day and night, allows the grapes to develop intense flavor profiles while retaining that signature zesty acidity that white wine lovers crave.

Food Pairing Guide

This is a versatile popular white wine that shines alongside fresh, zesty flavours. We recommend pairing the 2024 Wild River with:

Seafood: Fresh oysters, grilled prawns, or a classic seafood risotto.

Cheese: Tangy goat’s milk cheese or a sharp feta salad.

Cuisine: Asian-inspired dishes with citrus bases or mild green curries.

Quick Facts

• Producer: Mount Brown Estates
• Region: Waipara Valley, North Canterbury, NZ
• Vintage: 2024
• Wine Type: White Wine / Sauvignon Blanc
• ABV: 14%
• Awards: 93 Points (Cameron Douglas MS)