In 1983, David Hohnen tasted his first Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Captivated by its intensity, he began a journey to bottle the essence of Marlborough and share it with the world. He and winemaker Kevin Judd launched Cloudy Bay in 1985 to international acclaim, with a Sauvignon Blanc that put New Zealand wine on the map.* To this day, Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc garners numerous awards and high praise from the press as well as legions of devoted fans, who rightly consider it to be the standard bearer for its genre.
One "sniff, swirl and sip" of the Cloudy Bay will make you instantly understand why it is considered to be the highest expression of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc this world has ever seen. It has a nose that is so fragrant and and a palate that is so abundantly flavored it will make you think that you are drinking the nectar of the gods!
The 2025 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc is open and expressive on the nose, with notes of peach, elderflower, dune grass, Key lime and freshly squeezed lemon. On the palate, bright lemon curd-like notes are layered over subtle white nectarine and subtle salinity reminiscent of a cool sea breeze at the end of a warm day. There’s a sense of poise, with the refined mid palate balanced by a steel-cut citrus acidity and an elegant finish.*
Press:
93 points Wine Spectator:
"Concentrated and fragrant, with lemongrass, lemon verbena and celery salt notes to complement the pineapple, mango and lemon curd flavors, backed by a touch of orange sherbet. Gains momentum on the long, expressive finish."
92 points, James Suckling:
"Vivid, round and juicy, with lemons, limes, fresh herbs and some mild spices on the nose, following through to a medium body with fresh acidity. Lively and succulent, with a delicious finish packed with limes."
*from winery notes