Belmonte Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Slightly less flinty than some of its Marlborough peers, Belmonte (not sure about the name either) is yet another example of a decent Kiwi Sauvignon.

What sets it apart is perhaps a slightly sweeter taste, and arguably stronger tropical fruit and notable but not unpleasant acidity. The appeal is more subtle than some of the better known Kiwi's, and Belmonte seems to have taken its nod a little more from further west along the Loire, instead of the generic Sancerre wannabes.

So, a more subtle yet fruity Marlborough, but a tad less dry than you might be used to from that region. By no means a negative though, eminently drinkable. Available through Virgin Wines and elsewhere I'm sure.