Sauvignon Blanc Wine: Taste, Region, Type, Serving, Pairing

The Sauvignon Blanc is one of the world’s most popular and food-friendly wines. So, what is Sauvignon Blanc wine?

Pronounced as “saw-vee-nyon-blahnk,” it’s a wine made from green-skinned grapes of the same name. It’s a perfect combination of acidity and herbal flavors. This article reveals everything you need to know about this versatile wine.

All About the Sauvignon Blanc

Before going into detail, check out this overview of this well-loved wine.

An Overview of the Sauvignon Blanc

Primary Flavors	Grapefruit, honeydew, gooseberry, passion fruit, and white peach
Sweetness	Dry
Body	Medium-light
Tannins	None
Acidity	High
Astringency	Low
Alcohol by volume (ABV)	11.5-13.5%
Origin	Loire Valley, France
Styles	Sparkling, Light-Bodied Wine, Dessert Wines
Color	Medium-straw to deep yellow

What is Sauvignon Blanc?

This white wine’s fan base keeps growing because it’s easily identifiable, refreshing, and pairs with various dishes. It has an unmistakable racy acidity that balances its fresh, herbal notes.

What does Sauvignon Blanc mean?

This wine began as Southwest France’s indigenous grape. It derived its name from the French word “Sauvage,” which means wild. On the other hand, “blanc” means white.

What is the taste of Sauvignon Blanc?

Many people can relate to Sauvignon Blanc’s undeniable taste, high acidity, and crispness. It has herbal or grassy flavors similar to fresh bell peppers. These unique flavors are due to pyrazine, a chemical compound in white wines.

The herbal and “green” flavors are more dominant in cooler climates. They are also noticeable in grapes harvested early. Meanwhile, grapes coming from warm places lose their pyrazine flavor. In place of strong acidity are fruit flavors, including passion fruit, guava, and grapefruit.

Here is a chart to summarize the flavors of Sauvignon Blanc based on the climate.

Cool Climate	Warm Climate
Region	● Loire Valley ● Bordeaux ● France	● Southeast Australia ● South Africa
Flavor	● Bright, zippy, and peppery ● Overall herbaceous flavors	● Vibrant and lush ● Guava, kiwi, grapefruit, and passion fruit ● herbs
Acidity	High	Medium-high
Body	Medium	Medium-high
Aroma	Earthy	Fruity and earthy
Finish	Tart	Sweet

Is Sauvignon Blanc a dry wine?

Sauvignon Blanc is generally a dry wine. However, some New Zealand winemakers add a small amount of sugar to make the flavors rich. Some producers also create sparkling wine or dessert wine from the Sauvignon Blanc.

Types of Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc types are classified according to the region of origin. All wines come from the same grape. So, the difference lies in the terroir and climate of the land.

It would be nice to try Sauvignon Blancs from the following regions. Knowing where your wine comes from allows you to appreciate its complexity and unique features.

What are the different types of Sauvignon Blanc?

1. Loire Valley, France

This region is unanimously associated with the Sauvignon Blanc. The Pouilly-Fume and Sancerre Appellations produce the white wine’s purest expressions. They can balance bright fruitiness with earthy minerality.

It exudes the flavors of currants, green apples, sweet basil, and bell peppers mixed with wet limestone. Sauvignon Blanc for Loire Valley is dry, has high acidity, and has a medium body. It is also exceedingly unoaked, making the mineral notes stand out.

2. Bordeaux, France

This region in Southwest France is the second largest producer of the Sauvignon Blanc grape varietal. Usually, this region’s winemakers blend the Sauvignon Blanc with Muscadelle and Semillion to produce its signature White Bordeaux.

However, pure Sauvignon Blancs give off honey, lemon, white peach, gooseberry, and chalk flavors. These flavors blend well with the wine’s zesty acidity.

3. South Africa

The Sauvignon Blanc gets a new world interpretation from Western Cape, South Africa. The nearby ocean winds in the Constantia, Stellenbosch, and Elgin sub-regions provide a subtle saltiness.

Meanwhile, the African region’s mineral-rich soil and warm climate provide a distinct minerality with juicy notes.

The herbaceous and earthy notes take a backseat while the rustic yet fruity flavors shine. It features honey, green apple, nectarine, sweet peas, and lemon flavors. Additionally, the limestone and saline notes tease the palate.

4. New Zealand

New Zealand is responsible for bringing the rising popularity of  Sauvignon Blanc to the modern world. The ideal conditions of the Hawke’s Bay, Nelson, and Marlborough appellations allow the early ripening grape to thrive.

Wine enthusiasts looking for a more intense and richer interpretation of the varietal would enjoy bottles from this new-world producer. The flavors of kiwi, pineapple, rhubarb, and kiwi blend perfectly well with asparagus and lime.

There is also a distinct subtle minerality to Sauvignon Blancs from this country. This time, the primary fruitiness hides from the limelight.

How to Enjoy the Sauvignon Blanc

This versatile white wine is tasty and refreshing as is. However, there are serving techniques that will allow its incredible features to shine.

What is the ideal serving temperature?

Generally, it is best to serve white wines when they’re chilled. The Sauvignon Blanc is no exception. The ideal serving temperature is between 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. However, drinking it a bit warmer is best if you have an oaked bottle.

Remember not to offer it at a higher temperature than recommended. Warm Sauvignon Blancs will have noticeable alcohol content. In addition, the acidity and flavor will lose their luster.

It would help if you’d chill the wine in the refrigerator for two hours before opening and serving. However, if you’re pressed for time, you may immerse the wine bottle in an ice bath. A 45-minute soak would give you a perfectly chilled Sauvignon Blanc.

Does Sauvignon Blanc age well?

A bottle of Sauvignon Blanc is not meant to stay in the cellar for too long. Drinking it young allows the bold minerality and signature acidity to shine. Storing them for extended periods will rob the wine of its bright and zesty features.

How long will an unfinished bottle last?

A bottle of Sauvignon Blanc will last two to four days after it has been opened. It will begin to oxidize on its fifth day, making the flavors astringent and unpleasant. However, you can still use it for cooking, marinating meat, or making sauces.

What are the best Sauvignon Blanc food pairings?

The refreshing and bright flavors of the Sauvignon Blanc make it a perfect companion to many dishes. It is one of the reasons why it is a wine close to many people’s hearts. Check out the list below for Food that you can pair with this versatile white wine.

• Sushi
• Oysters, crab, shrimp, scallops, and clams
• Seafood and meat smothered in citrus or cream sauces
• Citrus-based salads and desserts
• Roast chicken flavored with thyme, marjoram, tarragon, rosemary, and Herbs de Provence.
• Thai Food such as Phad Kaprao (Thai basil with stir-fried pork or beef)
• Mexican Food, such as Enchiladas
• Spring vegetables, including artichokes, asparagus
• Garden Salads with chard, fennel, arugula, peppers, and pea shoots
• Nicoise salad
• Soft Cheeses, including Brie, Camembert, and Chevre
• Key Lime Pie and Sorbet

The Best Sauvignon Blanc Wines in the Market

Walking inside a liquor store, you will face many versions of Sauvignon Blanc. Multiply it by those available in different regions. The result is a dizzying array that can be confusing. We’ve come up with the best Sauvignon Blancs for every budget.

The Best Sauvignon Blancs under $50

Sometimes, it’s nice to splurge on the best wines, especially for special events. If you’re feeling generous, you may want to add the following wines to your to-buy list.

Alpha Estate Sauvignon Blanc Fumé 2021

Most Sauvignon Blancs aren’t exposed to oak. However, this fume-style Greek wine exudes unique textures and flavors. Some may think of it as an acquired taste. If you’re a lover of creamy Chardonnay, then this wine is for you.

Average Price: $29

Armida Sauvignon Blanc Redwood Road Estate 2021

This California-crafted Sauvignon Blanc tickles the palate. The intense aroma and slight creaminess make it a treat for the senses. The vibrant yet calm acidity perfectly pairs with many dishes.

Average Price: $30

Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2021

The renowned Cakebread cellars produced this subtly aromatic Sauvignon Blanc. It has a touch of barrel oak flavors and distinct minerality reminiscent of elegance and freshness.

Average Price: $30

Ram’s Gate Sauvignon Blanc 2021

This Carneros AVA Sauvignon Blanc’s fruitness and minerality shine with every sip. The concentrated flavors balance well with the natural acidity. These characteristics make it a highly recommended choice for this price range.

Average Price: $33

The Best Sauvignon Blanc Under $20

Some wines from the $20 or less price range also deserve a spot in your cellar or party. The following may not be as expensive, but they sure bring n a lot of flavor and class.

Lavis Classic Sauvignon Trentino DOC 2021

This Sauvignon Blanc hails from the mountainous Trentino Adige region of Italy. The terroir produced a crisp and expressive wine. You can taste the delicious mountain fruit flavor kissed with some minerality.

Average Price: $14

Bread & Butter California Sauvignon Blanc 2020

If you’re looking for a more affordable and relaxed Sauvignon Blanc, purchase this California wine. It’s uncomplicated and subtly aromatic. The crisp finish is a great ending to the bright acidity.

Average Price: $15

This chart can give you a bird’s eye view of what Sauvignon Blanc to buy.

Brand	Rating	Appellation	Average Price	ABV
Alpha Estate Sauvignon Blanc Fumé 2021	92	Greece	$29	13.5%
Armida Sauvignon Blanc Redwood Road Estate 2021	92	Sonoma County, California	$30	13.2 %
Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2021	89	Napa Valley, California	$30	14.1%
Ram’s Gate Sauvignon Blanc 2021	90	Sonoma, California	$33	13.7%
Lavis Classic Sauvignon Trentino DOC 2021	90	Trentino-Adige, Italy	$14	12.5%
Bread & Butter California Sauvignon Blanc 2020	90	California	$13	15%

Here are some more amazing Sauvignon Blancs from around the world.

Conclusion

So, what is Sauvignon Blanc wine? Aside from being a highly acidic and refreshing wine, it’s also a versatile companion to many dishes. It’s perfect for summer parties or outdoor events. Fortunately, there are many available variants for all budgets and taste preferences.