A Noble White Wine Rediscovered: Sauvignon Blanc
This month’s top picks from the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center
Complied by: MICHAEL PERRY
Chardonnay continues to dominate the white -wine world and Viognier and Pinot Grigio have carved out a nice niche. However, there is a noble varietal that originated in the Bordeaux region of France and was brought to this country by noted wine pioneer Charles Whetmore that is experiencing a rebirth. This wine grape has produced some of the best wines ever tasted in the Loire Valley, and arguably the most distinguished dessert wine of our time, Sauternes. Noted for its versatility and food- friendly style, it produces refreshingly crisp wines with aromas and flavors of citrus, tropical fruits, minerals, and fresh cut grass. So what is this mystery varietal? You might be surprised to hear that it’ is Sauvignon Blanc.
As with any wine, the producer can change the inherent qualities of a wine by how it’ is fermented, whether it’ is sweet or dry, and if it was oak aged or not. For me, Sauvignon Blanc is best when dry, fermented, and aged in stainless steel that allows the true nature of this noble grape variety to shine through. All three wines listed below are produced in this manner. Please Enjoy!
2008 Heritage Oak Sauvignon Blanc: $15.00
The wine is light gold with a hint of green and perfectly clear. Citrus, grapefruit, and cut grass aromas and flavors lead to a crisp, refreshing finish. ($15) www.heritageoakwinery.com
2007 LangeTwins Sauvignon Blanc: $14.00
Light gold and brilliantly clear, LangeTwins Sauvignon Blanc has aromas of bright citrus fruits and melon with floral notes. The wine has a nice balance of acidity and richness. Citrus lingers on the finish, inviting you to enjoy more. ($14) www.langetwins.com
2006 Gustavo Thrace Sauvignon Blanc: $16.00
This pretty Sauvignon Blanc is light gold with hints of green. Aromas and flavors of fresh straw, minerals, and tropical fruit are enhanced by a rich mouth feel with a mineral/steel clean, crisp finish. ($16) www.gustavothrace.com
**Sauvignon Blanc is the perfect accompaniment to appetizers, dips, vegetable dishes, salads with creamy dressings, fish of all kinds, and poultry.
For more information: Visit the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center, and taste from a selection of over two hundred award-winning Lodi wines. 2545 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 367-4727, www.lodiwine.com
