2011 Ta-Ku Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

I like Cloudy Bay; I do. But not at $900NT a bottle. See, this is what inevitably happens when LVMH acquires a brand that once offered decent value. They jack up the price because they know the one percenters are more than happy to pick up the tab for their marketing expenses.

Enters 2011 Ta_Ku Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. At $330NT, this is probably the cheapest Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc around. And dare I say, one of the best.

The color is pale gold with a dash of lime green, which gives the false impression that it is some unsophisticated, watery stuff. But the bouquet packs quite a punch, dripping with floral accents that accompanies hints of apple and citrus. On the palate, it's nothing but lucious honey and kiwi fruit, then the whole thing ends with a well-balanced lemony finish. It's rare that such a light-bodied wine has this much oomph.

So, to heck with LVMH. When there is a cheaper and better alternative around, this homie just ain't gonna pay.

92+
$330 at Costco.