($12, Foster’s Wine Estates): With the soaring popularity of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, it is increasingly difficult to find good, let alone terrific, ones at this price.  So don’t miss this one.  Although New Zealand’s best and most vibrant Sauvignon Blancs come from the Marlborough region, located on the South Island, it was Matua who started it all when they planted Sauvignon Blanc in 1970 at their home base, just west of Auckland on the North Island.  They sold Sauvignon Blanc cuttings to large wineries who planted extensively in Marlborough.  Matua eventually purchased 600 acres in Marlborough and supplements their own harvest with grapes from private growers.  Their 2006 is a classic example of Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region.  The usual Marlborough edginess is complemented by a stony element and a citric, lime-like quality.  The racy acidity prolongs the finish and cleans the mouth.  A great value. 88 Michael Apstein May 1, 2007