Page Contents
What is Sauvignon Blanc and what does it taste like?
Sauvignon Blanc is a popular white wine known for its refreshing and crisp nature, as well as its high acidity and aromatic qualities. It has gained significant popularity in the United States and is loved for its bright fruity notes. In this article, we will explore the origins of Sauvignon Blanc, how it is made, its similarities to Chardonnay, its flavor profile, and tips on how to best enjoy it.
The origins of Sauvignon Blanc
Originally grown as a wild grape in Bordeaux, France, Sauvignon Blanc was not initially used to make a new type of wine. Instead, French winemakers added it to Sauterne, a sweet dessert wine. Eventually, the grape found its way to the Sancerre appellation in the Loire Valley, where it was planted and used to make Sancerre wine. The popularity of this new wine led to the recognition and appreciation of Sauvignon Blanc as we know it today. It wasn’t until the 1980s, when the grape made its way to New Zealand, that it gained widespread popularity with its distinct fruity notes.
How Sauvignon Blanc is made
Sauvignon Blanc is typically made using stainless steel tanks for fermentation. The grapes are fermented at temperatures between 42 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. After fermentation, the wine is fined and filtered before being bottled for further fermentation. It is generally enjoyed while still young, about five months after the grapes are fermented.
The final product of Sauvignon Blanc is influenced by the region where the grapes are grown. Cooler climates, such as Sancerre in France, produce wines with more minerality, while warmer climates, such as New Zealand, produce highly aromatic wines with bright, floral and fruity notes. If you prefer a more subtle interpretation of Sauvignon Blanc, you may enjoy a bottle from Sancerre, while if you appreciate bold fruity flavors, the New Zealand varieties may be more to your liking.
Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are two white wines that share some similarities. Both come from France and can be made using similar techniques. However, Chardonnay is often aged in oak barrels rather than stainless steel tanks. While they have overlapping flavor profiles with other white wines, Sauvignon Blanc has its own collection of citrus and melon flavors with a medium to light body. Other whites can be richer and more full-bodied than the light, crisp nature of Sauvignon Blanc.
Sauvignon Blanc Flavor Profile
Sauvignon Blanc is known for its characteristic flavors that are easily recognized when tasting the wine. It exhibits bright citrus fruits such as grapefruit, white peach and passion fruit, along with notes of gooseberry and honeydew melon. These flavors are complemented by floral and sometimes fruity aromas.
The wine has a high acidity, which gives it a refreshing and delicious quality. It typically has an alcohol content (ABV) between 11.5% and 13.5%. Sauvignon Blanc is a dry wine with a medium to light body and a small amount of tannin. The medium to light body refers to its viscosity or thickness, while the tannins provide structure and can leave a dry sensation on the tongue.
How to best enjoy Sauvignon Blanc
To fully appreciate the flavors and aromas of Sauvignon Blanc, it is recommended that it be served within a specific temperature range. Ideally, the wine should be chilled between 45 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also important to use a white wine glass that allows the wine to hit the palate properly, as the shape of the glass can affect the nose and flavors of the wine.
While Sauvignon Blanc can be aged for several years with proper storage, it is generally enjoyed young, within a few months of bottling. However, some Sauvignon Blancs can age gracefully for three to five years, offering different nuances and complexities over time.
Where to buy Sauvignon Blanc wines
Due to its popularity, Sauvignon Blanc is readily available in most local grocery stores and can be found on bar and restaurant wine lists. Whether you prefer a bold New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc or a more subdued French variety like Sancerre, there are plenty of options to explore. Online platforms like Vivino can help you discover highly rated bottles, or consider buying from Foley Family Wines, known for its sustainable growing and processing methods.
Some recommended Sauvignon Blanc wines to look for include La Crema Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Justin Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Roth Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2018, and Chalk Hill Sauvignon Blanc 2019. These wines are known for their excellent quality and represent the diverse range of Sauvignon Blanc styles.
Bottom line
Sauvignon Blanc is a versatile and popular white wine known for its refreshing nature, bright fruity flavors and high acidity. It has a rich history originating in France and has gained worldwide recognition, particularly in New Zealand and Sancerre. Understanding its origins, production methods, flavor profile, and how to best enjoy it can enhance your appreciation of this beloved varietal. Whether you prefer a crisp, citrus-forward style or a more mineral-driven expression, there is a Sauvignon Blanc to suit your palate. So pour yourself a glass, savor the vibrant flavors, and enjoy the unique experience that Sauvignon Blanc has to offer.
FAQS
What foods go well with Sauvignon Blanc?
Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with a wide variety of foods. It complements seafood, especially shellfish such as oysters and shrimp. It also goes well with salads, goat cheeses, grilled vegetables and light poultry dishes.
Can Sauvignon Blanc be aged like other white wines?
While Sauvignon Blanc is generally enjoyed young, some high-quality Sauvignon Blanc wines can age gracefully for three to five years. Aging can bring out additional complexities and nuances in the wine.
How should I serve Sauvignon Blanc?
Sauvignon Blanc is best served chilled between 45 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a white wine glass with a narrow opening to concentrate the aromas and deliver the wine properly to the palate.
Are there different styles of Sauvignon Blanc?
Yes, there are several styles of Sauvignon Blanc. New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is known for its vibrant fruity flavors, while French Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre offers more mineral-driven and subtle characteristics. Other regions may also produce their own unique styles.
What are the primary flavor profiles of Sauvignon Blanc?
Sauvignon Blanc typically exhibits citrus aromas such as grapefruit, white peach and passion fruit. It may also have notes of gooseberry, honeydew melon and floral undertones. The wine’s high acidity provides a refreshing and delicious sensation on the palate.