In The Glass: Sineann White Table Wine 2011

Sineann Winery is located in the Chehalem Mountain AVA, in Newberg, Oregon. The Chehalem Mountain AVA is one of six sub-appelations of the Willamette Valley, each containing it’s own distinctive terroir. Fruit for the Sineann wines is sourced from high quality vineyards in several different growing regions, including some as far away as Marlborough, New Zealand. In the spring, Sineann winemaker, Peter Rosback, travels to New Zealand to make Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir wines sourced from a vineyard in Marlborough.

While enjoying a delicious roasted chicken dinner at a friend’s house recently, a cork was popped on a wine I’ve never had before: Sineann 2011 Marlborough White Table Wine. The label on the back of the bottle simply read, “Lots of luck finding a better wine for the money.”  Just above the label was the price tag, showing that the cost of the wine, which was purchased at a local Market of Choice in Eugene, Oregon, was $11.49. I can imagine this can be found for even less at other wine shops, Market of Choice tends to have higher than average prices on just about everything. Even at $11.49, however, this was a truly enjoyable wine.

The 2011 Sineann White Table Wine displayed tropical fruits and grapefruit on the nose which led to nicely rounded fruits and citrus flavors on the palate. Crisp, refreshing, and very easy to drink – this would make an excellent summertime sipper on the patio or the perfect companion to scallops, shrimp or crab. Aromas and flavors were somewhat familiar, but I wasn’t quite able to identify the varietal or varietals used. Because it was from the Marlborough region of New Zealand, I thought it must be Sauvignon Blanc, but it wasn’t as intense and rich as most that come from this region. I actually really loved the light, refreshing qualities.

My curiosity got the best of me, and I contacted winemaker, Peter Rosback. Indeed, the 2011 Sineann White Table Wine was made in New Zealand using 100% Sauvignon Blanc. My immediate reaction: it’s lovely to have found a Sauvignon Blanc that is light and refreshing that still displays delicious tropical fruit and lemon/lime zest aromas and flavors – all at a very affordable price, even from Market of Choice. Cheers.