Marlborough’s keenest minds are tweaking sauvignon and elevating it above the wide, vast gooseberry plain. A tiny one-fifteenth of this blend was cleverly fermented and aged in old French oak barriques, reinforcing the poise and internal harmony of its fruit and contributing texture, fullness and persistence without a hint of oak flavour. Genius! Granny smith apples, gooseberries and lime zest are all along for the ride, drawn out by the steely acidity of this cool season, culminating in a long finish of excellent texture and refinement. One of the best value sauvignons on the shelves. $16 at Nicks and Hunt for Wine.