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WINE & VINEYARD
Craggy Range Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc: A New Classic
New Zealand is globally celebrated for its Sauvignon Blanc, often defined by bold, tropical aromatics and high acidity - distinctive of the Marlborough region.
Yet in the heart of Martinborough's Te Muna Valley, a more refined and complex expression is gathering momentum. Grown on the ancient, stony soils of Te Muna in Martinborough, our Sauvignon Blanc represents a new classic - one that is arguably more refined, more complex, and unmistakably site-driven.
"Martinborough’s climate has a harsh edge. The cold bites with spring frosts and chilly winters, while the wind stresses the vines, controlling their vigour. Yet, this harshness is a gift. It results in thicker skins and more concentrated flavours.” - Chief Winemaker, Ben Tombs
The Martinborough District was originally selected by the Peabody family for its unique terroir, and no site better represents that than our Te Muna Road Vineyard. Carved by the ancient Huangarua River, the vineyard spans three distinct river terraces, each with its own mix of gravel, silt, and mineral content.
Our Sauvignon Blanc vines flourish on the younger, free-draining lower terrace, where stress from the elements leads to grapes of exceptional concentration and flavour.
The climate - dry summers, large diurnal temperature swings, and persistent winds - helps shape a Sauvignon Blanc that is aromatically pure, mineral-driven, and intensely structured. It is a profile that distinguishes Martinborough from other New Zealand regions and contributes to what Ben describes as a wine with “ripe citrus flavours and a bright, pristine purity.”
Precision in the Vineyard
Unlike many regions where Sauvignon Blanc grows with natural vigour, Martinborough’s challenging climate demands precision and care. At Craggy Range, we embrace this challenge. Low cropping levels and meticulous canopy management ensure the vine’s energy is channelled into fruit quality rather than vegetative growth. The resulting open canopies allow dappled light to ripen the fruit evenly, leading to low yields and small, flavour-packed berries.
We are also committed to regenerative and organic farming practices, enhancing biodiversity and soil health to better express the site’s unique character.
Every block of fruit is treated individually, with winemaking decisions tailored to the microclimate and soil of its origin.
Our winemaking approach includes:
- Whole-bunch pressing for greater aromatic finesse
- Fermentation in French oak barrels, amphora, and Austrian foudres
- Extended lees aging to build mouthfeel and subtle savoury detail
- Selective wild fermentations to preserve texture and terroir expression
These techniques bring nuance, richness, and complexity to the final blend, creating a Sauvignon Blanc that is layered with a mineral salinity, while retaining the freshness and lift that define the variety.
“By blending these various components, we aim to craft a Sauvignon Blanc that is greater than the sum of its parts - and the purest reflection of Martinborough’s terroir.” - Chief Winemaker Ben Tombs
Craggy Range Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc is not your typical New Zealand white. Here, tropical fruit gives way to ripe citrus, white florals, and dried herbs. The palate is finely textured, driven by saline minerality and a savoury edge - a wine of depth, remarkable clarity and highly food-friendly.
This is a Sauvignon Blanc for a new era: a modern expression that will continue to set the benchmark for years to come.
Explore Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc
Complex and elegant.
