Duncan Savage’s ‘Salt River’ takes a serious look at Sauvignon Blanc, seen through the lens of the South Atlantic Ocean. It’s not a ‘varietal’ wine in the sense that it doesn’t turn up the dial on Sauvignon Blanc’s trademark aromas, as you might expect to find in a Marlborough expression, but pares them right down, so that the wine is taut, pithy and dry.

Sancerre doesn’t mention Sauvignon Blanc on the front label and there’s an argument for this wine doing the same, because it communicates a lot more about the terroir than the grape variety, displaying a distinct saline quality, a bit of rubble dust, as well as grapefruit peel, preserved lemon and marine breeze. A serious alternative to Sancerre or Pouilly-Fuissé. 13.5% alc. Drink now-2030.

Press review:

JancisRobinson.com: “Restrained but precise aromas of grapefruit and starfruit, with elderflower floral notes and a subtle nettle leafiness. A real stony undertow, too. Engaging balance of the variety’s vigorous freshness and a slightly chewy texture. Chalky, green-fruited and saline on the finish, with a white-pepper kick. Drink now-2030.” 16.5+ points

Customer comments:

“It’s delicious!!” - Mr M.P.

“It’s better than anything I have tasted from the Loire in recent years.” - Mr A.W.

 “It’s delicious. Can I have another 6 bottles, please?” - Mr K.D.