Babich Black Label, Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Product Information
Country New Zealand
Region Marlborough
Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc
Vintage 2023
ABV 13.5%
Discover the Babich Black Label Sauvignon Blanc 2023, a premium New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc crafted with exceptional attention to texture, complexity, and food pairing. Sourced from select estate and contract vineyards in the Waihopai Valley, Marlborough, this wine is a vibrant and expressive showcase of the region’s unique terroir.
Vineyard & Winemaking
Hand-selected grapes are harvested at peak ripeness to preserve intense aromatics and flavour. The fruit undergoes gentle pressing with minimal skin contact, followed by fermentation in stainless steel using both wild and cultured yeasts for added depth. A portion of the wine is allowed to undergo malolactic fermentation, enhancing the mouthfeel and introducing subtle creaminess. The final blend is lightly fined and bottled to preserve its fresh, fruit-forward character.
Tasting Notes: Classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
• Appearance: Pale straw with greenish hues, fresh and youthful.
• Aromas: Bursting with passionfruit, lime zest, gooseberry, and blackcurrant leaf. Herbal notes of garden herbs, boxwood, and gunflint add depth. Subtle hints of beeswax, candied orange peel, and lemon balm bring added intrigue.
• Palate: Bright citrus and tropical fruit (pineapple, white stone fruit) lead into a richly textured mid-palate of melon, red apple, and mandarin. Herbal and mineral layers (fennel, smoky herbs) provide complexity. The finish is clean, persistent, and slightly spicy, with lingering citrus rind and a touch of salinity.
Awards & Accolades
• Wine Spectator: 92 Points
“A succulent hint of lanolin and beeswax complements the floral and citrus notes … touches of candied orange peel, lemon balm and white grapefruit.”
• Vinous: 91 Points
“Well-judged style … nicely textured, some decent substance … flavours of gooseberry, elderflower and passion fruit.”
Food Pairing
Crafted "with food in mind," this wine pairs beautifully with seafood, grilled vegetables, goat cheese salads, and light pasta dishes. Its vibrant acidity and layered complexity make it a versatile choice for elegant dining or casual evenings.
Founded in 1916 by pioneering winemaker Josip Babich, Babich Wines is proud to be one of New Zealand’s oldest and most respected family-owned wine producers. For over a century, the Babich family has been dedicated to crafting premium New Zealand wines, combining tradition, innovation, and a deep respect for the land.
From the very beginning, the Babich family's mission has been simple: to produce the best quality New Zealand wine for export and local enjoyment. Today, their award-winning wines are enjoyed around the world, a testament to their relentless pursuit of excellence and quality.
Guided by core values of integrity, sustainability, and artisanry, Babich Wines continues to lead the way in sustainable New Zealand winemaking practices. Every bottle reflects their commitment to environmental stewardship and their passion for creating wine that truly represents the unique character of New Zealand’s wine regions.
Now celebrating over 100 years in winemaking, the Babich legacy lives on through new generations who remain committed to producing world-class New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other varietals. As they look to the future, the Babich family is proud to continue sharing their story, one vintage at a time.
