The 2011 Sauvignon Blanc gives intense notes of mown grass and gooseberries over crushed stones and a whiff of asparagus. Youthfully fruited with racy acidity and a medium body, it gives a long straightforward finish of fresh herbs and green apples. Drink it now through 2013. Importer: South Pacific Wines LLC, New York, NY

The 2010 Sauvignon Blanc gives notes of lemongrass, hay and chalk dust with a hint of fresh peas. Light to medium bodied, it offers a good flavor concentration of slightly more savory lemongrass and mineral characters with a long finish. Drink it now to 2013. Importer: South Pacific Wines LLC, New York, NY

This Marlborough Sauvignon from a Hawke’s Bay winery is a little on the herbal side—even close to vegetal, although it doesn’t quite go that far. A trace of sweetness lingers to balance out the tobacco- and tomato-leaf elements. ——J.C.(9/1/2011)—— 87

Crossroads’ 2009 Sauvignon Blanc gives moderate to intense lemon/lime and grapefruit aromas with some Golden Delicious apple and a whiff of honeysuckle. Medium bodied with a good backbone of high acid, the fruit flavors are appealing on first impression though leave you slightly wanting for more on the mid-palate and medium-long finish. Drink it now while it’s this fresh. Importer: South Pacific Wines, New York, NY; tel. (646) 206 5083