On the 13th of December, 1642, Abel Tasman was the first European man to see what we now know as New Zealand. He called it Staete Landt, but was overruled by his bosses later. More relevant to this article, Abel was the first person to make a partial map of New Zealand’s west coast.

350 years later, Ruud Maasdam and Dorien Vermaas moved their family from Holland to New Zealand with the goal of making great wine. They succeeded and so had local growers ask them to make wine from their fruit. The result is Map Maker, named in honour of their Dutch predecessor. It is made with the same care and attention to detail we associate with this wonderful estate.

Staete Landt Map Maker Sauvignon Blanc 2008
for $20.95 per bottle in cases of 12

This is Staete Landt’s first attempt at a non-estate grown wine. Sitting just on the wrong side of $20, this offers amazing value. It has a very similar price-point to the main competitor in the market. I challenge anyone to try this side by side with the Crawford wine and not be impressed with the Staete Landt quality and flavour

The famous New Zealand wine critic, Bob Campbell MW is quoted as saying:

‘Second label for classy Marlborough producer, Staete Landt, is a lot better than many flagship wines from others.’

That’s all I was trying to say!

What does it taste like?

Classic Sauvignon characters of guava and cantaloupe (and passion fruit if you ask Ruud) make the foundation for this wine. I was (pleasantly) surprised by the intensity of flavour. I would serve this cold on a hot day and have it solo. If you are looking for a food match then aim at seafood (not lobster). I am thinking of my dad’s famous chili and garlic squid. You’ll have to fend for yourself.

Why?

All the fruit comes from top growers in the Rapaura region that surrounds Staete Landt’s own estate. Ruud is able to ensure standards of viticulture in an area he knows intimately. This ensures a continuity of style and quality.

What's happening at Vintages?

At the other end of the price spectrum...

I want everyone to go out and get a bottle of Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte NV (LCBO code 537605) for $49.50 and tell me what you think. O.K., you only have to get it if you like Champagne and have the inclination. This is now one of the most important houses and Feuillatte is hugely popular in the States, but nearly unheard of here. If Jackie Onassis, Yves Saint-Laurent and Lauren Bacall were seen drinking it, we figure you might like it too.
Wine Spectator has given them another positive review. Here’s what they thought.

‘Creamy, with caramel tones in the flavor spectrum, along with apricot, grapefruit and a touch of mineral. The mousse is assertive, helped along by a chalky feel on the finish. Drink now. 89/100’