Catalina Sounds

An idyllic image of the Catalina planes, known as flying boats and the largest warbirds of World War II, sailing across the Marlborough Sounds, inspired the name. Catalina Sounds produces wines from both estate-grown and purchased fruit, staying true to the heart of the region while focusing on highlighting texture. Their vineyards are situated across the three sub-regions of Wairau, Southern, and Awatere Valleys in Marlborough. What began in 2005 has grown into a successful venture on the northeastern tip of New Zealand’s South Island. The "Sound of White" label showcases their finest bottlings, with 31.6 ha under vine, growing sauvignon blanc, pinot gris, chardonnay and pinot noir. Crowded House, another offshoot of Catalina Sounds, is located in the Waihopai Valley ranges. Matthew Ward leads the winemaking, with Fraser Brown managing the vineyards. -SHANTEH WALE