As part of the 2025 Broadbent University series, Master Sommelier Josh Orr led an engaging and visually rich session focused on New Zealand’s Marlborough region, with a spotlight on Spy Valley Wines. The presentation offered a blend of travelogue, viticultural insight, and tasting philosophy—perfect for wine professionals and enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of modern New Zealand wine.
Inside Marlborough: Wine, Place, and People
Josh began with a quick virtual tour through the Wairau Valley, one of Marlborough’s key subregions. From coastal influences to the rugged inland foothills, the region’s climate and soil diversity are part of what makes its wines stand out.
“This is Blenheim, and this is the lower Wairau Valley,” Josh explained, “a place shaped by the coastal breeze, river gravels, and a tight community of growers and winemakers.”
Throughout the session, Josh wove in photos from his recent trip to New Zealand, sharing views of the Marlborough Sounds, Spy Valley’s cellar and vineyards, and even quirky local touches like James Bond-themed wine posters and license plates.
Spy Valley: More Than Just Sauvignon Blanc
What stood out most wasn’t just the landscape—it was the culture behind the wine. Josh highlighted how Spy Valley’s core values, proudly posted in the winery for all employees and interns, reflected a genuine sense of care and purpose.
“When you meet Amanda and Emily from Spy Valley, it all clicks,” said Josh. “They’re authentic, thoughtful, and it comes through in the wine.”
From Maori cultural symbols at the winery entrance to the use of historical spy station materials, Spy Valley blends local history, international flair, and sustainability into its identity.
Geek Corner: Typicity, Terroir & Sauvignon Blanc’s Evolution
Demian Hostetter joined the discussion with a thought-provoking take on how New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is evolving, especially in comparison to classic regions like Sancerre:
“It’s not that Spy Valley tastes like Sancerre,” he said, “but stylistically it’s leaning that way, while Sancerre itself is shifting.”
Josh agreed, adding that the global face of Sauvignon Blanc is changing, and Marlborough producers like Spy Valley are at the forefront of redefining what typicity can mean.
Why Spy Stands Apart
Josh emphasized that Spy Valley shouldn’t be lumped into the “generic Marlborough SB” category. With its focus on detail, site expression, and cultural integrity, the wines offer more nuance, structure, and ageability than many assume.
“This is why we advocate for understanding the producer, not just the place,” Josh noted. “It’s easy to generalize, but Spy is doing something special—and it shows.”
The Human Element: Good Wine, Better People
Josh wrapped up the session by emphasizing the importance of human connection in wine appreciation.
“Wine tastes better when the people behind it are good,” he said. “It’s hard to separate the product from the producer—and in this case, we’re lucky that Amanda and her team are some of the best.”
