14 May Sauvignon Blanc: An International Grape
Sauvignon Blanc is considered to be one of the top three white wine grapes. Well known for its grassy herbal flavors, this old-world grape has also done well internationally. Sauvignon Blanc originated in the Loire Valley of France but has since moved on to places such as the US, Australia, South Africa, Chile, New Zealand, and Italy to name a few. Each location offers its own unique expression (or as the French call it terroir), making each country’s version a distinct tasting experience. This grape is frequently paired with other varieties like Semillon to make blended white wines as they do inBordeaux.
In the Loire Valley of France the grape produces a crisp grassy flavor with hints of minerals and an occasional smoky characteristic. The grape was first introduced toCaliforniain the 1870’s where it has become a vineyard staple and often described as having citrus undertones. In the 1970’s the vine was introduced toNew Zealandto be blended with other varieties but proved to be a star all on its own. In New Zealand it produces a crisp, acidic white with signature aromas of grapefruit and passion fruit. The distinct flavor of theNew Zealandvariety led to an increase in popularity in the 1990’s.
The wine is commonly produced in stainless steel vats which help maintain the crisp acidity and fresh fruit flavors. Some areas also use oak barrel aging which is said to have the advantage of decreasing the acidity, but at the same time it also tones down the citrus flavors. This phenomenon began inCaliforniain the late 1960’s when Robert Mondavi barrel aged his Sauvignon Blanc and called it Fume Blanc. Soon after many other wineries followed his lead and Fume Blanc remains popular today.
The ripeness level of these grapes affects the final flavor of the wine which is often used to the winemakers advantage. The berries are harvested in intervals at varying levels of ripeness which gives the wine a more complex and layered flavor. Fermentation temperature and duration of contact with the skins of the grapes also affect the characteristics of the end product.
Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp white that is light to medium yellow color with just a hint of green. It is often described as having aromas of lemons, asparagus or fig. This dry white wine makes an excellent pairing with seafood, cheese or just about any food that calls for a crisp, clean wine to compliment or contrast it. So now that you know more about Sauvignon Blanc, why not try some with dinner tonight?