Sauvignon Blanc
Pronunciation: Soh veen yohn Blahn
Where it's Grown: Well,
it is grown everywhere! Some places
offer a style that is benchmark so let's
highlight those.
Loire Valley of France is the
birthplace of what we expect out of this grape.
The first thought on oak-influence wines would be
Bordeaux. The modern world has championed
Marlborough in New Zealand as the most
outstanding example of the this grape. You will
find a myriad of styles in California,
Washington, Australia, South Africa, Argentina,
Spain, Italy, and Chile. There are others as well.
What to expect: First and foremost we must divide between Sauvignon Blanc that has seen oak barrel aging and neutral tank aging. In Bordeaux, France and the West Coast of the US you will commonly find Sauvignon that has been aged in barrel to give it a rounder, richer flavor and texture. These wines will feature melon, candied lemon, light cream, vanilla and muted, or neglible, notes of herbs. In favor of the richness these wines have abandoned the herbal nature of the grape.
Wines without oak influence abound. Sancerre is lemon, lime and tarragon with chalky notes. Marlborough is pink grapefruit, guava, lime and lemon grass. Australia is pink grapefruit, candied lime and tarragon as is South Africa. In general, Sauvignon should offer a bright citrus fruit base with a fresh herb accent that is either dominant or mingled, but not subtle. It is a great wine for light seafood dishes, brightly herbed dishes, goat's cheeses, and a hot summer afternoon.
