Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc 2008

We head back to New Zealand today to try another Sauvignon Blanc. As I’ve previously mentioned, New Zealand has a reputation for good Sauvignon Blanc and this one lives up to the reputation.

The seeds of Nobilo as a winery began when Nikola Nobilo immigrated from Croatia to New Zealand in 1937 in anticipation of World War II. The Nobilo family had been producing wines in Croatia for some 300 years and Nikola continued the tradition in New Zealand. The Nobilo winery was acquired by BRL Hardy in 2000, which was then acquired by the wine and spirits giant Constellation Brands in 2003. Nikola Nobilo continued to produce wines for the company after the acquisition by Constellation, but he passed away in 2007 at the age of 94.

Nobilo produces wine from many regions in New Zealand, but this Sauvignon Blanc comes from Marlborough—reputed as the most desirable region in New Zealand for Sauvignon Blanc. After tasting this wine, I can understand why.

Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc

The intensity in the nose is good and it is a highly tropical Sauvignon Blanc. Pineapple, honey, melon, pear and a hint of flint give this wine a wonderful bouquet. When I first opened the bottle, it didn’t have the vegetal characteristic that many SBs from New Zealand have, but after it opened up a distinct green pepper aroma came to the surface. The palate is flavorful, well balanced and just as exciting as the nose. It has lemon, pear, melon, apple and mineral flavors. The finish is fairly long and enjoyable. All told, this is a great Sauvignon Blanc at a decent price.

Wine: Nobilo
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Vintage: 2008
Alcohol: 12.5%
Rating: 90
Price: $11.99

This entry was posted on Monday, January 5th, 2009 and is filed under New Zealand Wine, Sauvignon Blanc, White Wines. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Trish said on August 12th, 2009

I read your review and I must beg to differ. I found this to be much too sweet and a rather terrible wine. I was so looking forward to trying something new but unfortunatley had to dump the wine as I just could not even finish the glass

Tim said on August 13th, 2009

Sorry this one didn’t work out for you, Trish. Is there a Sauvignon Blanc that’s a favorite of yours?

Rich said on August 18th, 2009

Trish is out of her mind. Wine Spectator would not agree with her either. Nobody likes everything, but “could not even finish the glass”. Nothing more than self important snobbery.

Tim said on August 18th, 2009

Thanks for the comment, Rich. I too was a bit surprised by Trish’s reaction. But everyone has their own preferences. I try to review wines based on varietal correctness, balance and complexity (among other measures). I’m glad to know Spectator and others agree with my assessment.

Beth said on September 23rd, 2009

I first tried this wine in 2005 at a Jazz club in Ferndale, MI and was hooked! I was never a white wine drinker until Nobilo. I came across this review, looking for comparisons between Nobilo Sav Blanc 2004 and 2008. Those are the only years available thru the supplier for my wedding. We will be serving only Nobilo at our reception. Brancott Sav Blanc is another fav. from the Marlborough vineyards.

Tim said on September 24th, 2009

Hi Beth. Thanks for visiting the site and for the comment. I would definitely recommend going with the 2008. While I haven’t had the 2004, Sauvignon Blanc is usually best consumed young. The exception are some barrel-aged versions, which this is not.

Kim said on October 10th, 2009

Thanks for the review! I picked up a bottle form myself on a whim at Trader Joes and thoroughly enjoyed it! I fully agree with your review, and we have purchased more just to have on hand. Loved this one!

Andie said on October 14th, 2009

I picked up this bottle to cook with. It paired beautifully in a plum-apple sauce over braised chicken thighs. We finished the bottle with dinner. For 12 dollars this wine is a real find at my local grocery store.

Tim said on October 14th, 2009

Kim, Andie… Thank you both for your comments. I’m glad you enjoyed this one.

Brian said on October 31st, 2009

I tried this wine for the first time in a restaurant and was absolutely stunned at the flavor (based on per glass, and the price). Have since discovered it’s sold at Safeway and it has become my #1 house wine for day-to-day, absolutely fabulous.

marie said on November 8th, 2009

This is a great suavignon blanc – especially deliciuos with fish.

WinoJoey said on May 10th, 2010

If you like Sauvignon Blancs from Marlborough, you have to try Whitehaven. I like Nobilo, but Whitehaven kicks its behind! Yum, I’m craving some now!

Tim said on May 10th, 2010

I don’t recall coming across Whitehaven, but I’ll make a note of it and keep an eye out. Thanks for the recommendation!

jennifer said on May 14th, 2010

This is, by far, one of my favorite white wines!

Tim said on May 17th, 2010

Thanks for the comment, Jennifer. I think you’re not alone choosing this as a favorite.

susanne said on June 17th, 2010

I was looking for a white wine i haven’t taste before -I always choose SELAKS – I must say it was a delightful exsperience!now I have 2 very good wines on my list!
happy summer to you from Denmark .