The best of both worlds

Billed as “the best Sauvignon Blanc in New Zealand”, a joint venture between Trinity Hill and Pascal Jolivet has secured representation in the UK through Carte Blanche Wines.

Metis, a collaboration between an Old World and a New World producer, is a brand that will be aimed specifically at independent and wholesaler businesses.

The wine, which is being hailed as “the very best of New Zealand and France,” by well-respected producer Pascal Jolivet, is in firm favour with its new importer too, as managing director of CBW, Ben Llewelyn explained: “We believe Metis is the best Sauvignon Blanc being produced in New Zealand and will reinforce the reputation of Hawkes Bay as a quality wine making region as well as lead people to a new style of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, one that offers a great deal of sophistication, complexity and elegance.”

Jolivet was particularly impressed with the potential of Hawkes Bay when he visited the region five years ago. “We believe Metis is the best Sauvignon Blanc being produced in New Zealand and will reinforce the reputation of Hawkes Bay as a quality wine making region as well as lead people to a new style of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, one that offers a great deal of sophistication, complexity and elegance,” he said.

Meanwhile, collaborative producer John Hancock (pictured) of Trinity Hill said: “[I] believe we are looking at an icon in the future of this country’s wine roll-call.

"I have worked with Ben Llewelyn and know he has both the knowledge and passion to represent Metis in the best possible way in the UK market.”

Metis only has a Hawkes Bay Sauvignon Blanc in its portfolio to date, but it will also be releasing a Pinot Noir with the 2011 vintage.

Jane Parkinson, 13.09.2010