On International Sauvignon Blanc Day (1 May), Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand 2027 (SBNZ27) announces its first speaker line-up, bringing together a group of global voices and visionaries set to feature as part of the flagship event in Marlborough from 2-4 February 2027.
The initial speakers include:
Felicity Carter, Founder of Drinks Insider and Editorial Director of Areni Global, will bring her expert global perspective on New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, exploring where it stands today and what may lie ahead. “New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc has had the most impressive run of any wine style of the modern era, and now it's doing it again - with the turn towards fresher, lighter styles of white wine, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is the perfect wine to meet the times,” says Felicity.
Charlotte Dagueneau, Daughter of the late Didier Dagueneau. Charlotte shares the story of his transformative impact on Pouilly-Fumé, where he challenged convention and redefined what Sauvignon Blanc could be. Charlotte brings a deeply personal connection to the grape, along with a thoughtful, independent perspective on New Zealand shaped by her own journey in wine.
Jermaine Stone, Host, Executive Producer, Wine Consultant, Writer, and Content Creator @realwolfofwine. “It’s a true honour to be part of the SBNZ27 experience in New Zealand for a few reasons. I love Sauvignon Blanc," says Jermaine. "Its freshness and generous tropical character make New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc a go-to for me when I’m overwhelmed by a big wine list. In my eyes, New Zealand is the undisputed king of the category. To really understand wine, you have to become a citizen of the world. I’ve learned through travel that when you experience a wine in its terroir, you gain a completely different level of appreciation for it, and I can’t wait for that moment in New Zealand. This is an incredible opportunity, and I’m both excited and humbled to be part of it. I’ve got an exciting runway leading up to this trip, and I’m looking forward to sharing that journey and celebrating with everyone who makes it out to New Zealand next year.”
The announcement marks the countdown to SBNZ27, which will convene international wine trade and key opinion leaders to explore the evolution and future of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. SBNZ27 will deliver an immersive, thought-provoking programme designed to both celebrate and broaden global perceptions of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. From diverse regional expressions and age-worthy styles to emerging innovations, this experience will offer a deep, nuanced perspective on the category.
New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc has become a global benchmark - instantly recognisable, continually evolving, and firmly rooted in place. Marking International Sauvignon Blanc Day, the committee is on site across the iconic SBNZ27 venues, refining the programme and experiences, and laying the groundwork for an event set to be truly unforgettable.
Tickets are now available, with limited capacity. Find out more at sauvignonnz.com.
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Editor’s notes:
Branding and images for Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand 2027 can be found here.
Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand 2027
Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand 2027 is a global gathering celebrating the style that put New Zealand wine on the world stage. Held in Marlborough, New Zealand, SBNZ27 brings together producers, media and trade to explore the wines, places and ideas shaping the future of Sauvignon Blanc. www.sauvignonnz.com
New Zealand Wine
- New Zealand wine is exported to more than 100 countries
- New Zealand produces just over 1% of the world’s wine
- New Zealand wine is New Zealand’s seventh-largest export good
- New Zealand wine exports for 2024 were $2.1 billion
- Sauvignon Blanc remains the country’s most exported variety, with 89% of wine exported being Sauvignon Blanc. - View reports and statistics here
SBNZ27 Chair and Committee
Chair: Natalie Christensen
Committee: Ben Leen, Ben Tombs, Charlotte Read, Jules Taylor, Laura-Kate Morgan, Marcus Pickens, Murray Cook, Rachael Everitt, Rich Ellis, Richelle Tyney, Tracy Johnston
For further information, contact:
Sarah Szostak, Executive Officer, Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand 2027
+64 21 552 509
events@sauvignonnz.com
