($15, Vineyard Brands):  The 2009 vintage was particularly successful for New Zealand, according to David Strada, the US representative of New Zealand Wine, because there was no rain during harvest.  This wine supports his assessment.  Always a reliable Sauvignon Blanc, Villa Maria’s Private Bin in 2009 has an extra sense of ripeness which gives it a pleasing texture and fuller mouth feel without losing any of the signature zippy citric pungency.  It’s a great choice for Asian cuisine. 88 Michael Apstein Jan 12, 2010