The Cellar: Summery Sauvignon Blancs

The Cellar: Summery Sauvignon Blancs

Sauvignon Blanc is a hugely popular varietal and a great summer wine. It is a versatile grape that is grown all over the world; in cool, moderate and even in some warmer climates. Because of the difference in ripeness the grape reaches there are often significant differences in the flavors it delivers. In cooler climates Sauvignon Blancs are often grassy and crisp, whereas warmer climates often produce Sauvignon Blancs that display more tropical fruit notes or have more body. The grape has its origins in France’s Bordeaux wine region but has since traveled the world. This week’s wines focus on Sauvignon Blancs from the New World - emerging wine producing nations outside of Europe.

2009 Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough Regional Collection

New Zealand is a newcomer to the international wine scene. The country experienced its wine revolution in the ‘90’s, especially between 1994 and 1998, in which the number of wine makers jumped from 31 to 293.

While the country produces a wide range of wines, Sauvignon Blanc is undoubtedly number one. The Marlboro region is especially famous for producing great and very affordable Sauvignon Blancs that are as intense and vibrant as they are delicious.

The 2009 Nobilo Regional, which received an 88 point rating from Wine Spectator Magazine, is a solid Sauvignon Blanc and a great example of the style Marlboro offers. It has a beautiful nose filled with tropical fruit notes and hints of grass. On the palate the wines initial ripe tropical fruit notes and softness is quickly taken over by zesty citrus notes. It finishes long with citrus and tropical fruits.  

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2010 Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc Reserva

Chile is another emerging wine producing nation and another place where Sauvignon Blanc is flourishing. The best examples are from the Casablanca Valley, a 15-mile-long valley located west of Santiago covering

approximately 55,000 acres. The coastal mountain ranges surrounding Casablanca create a unique ‘terroir’ with a diversity of microclimates. The valley floor's cool climate is ideal for growing premium Sauvignon Blanc grapes.

The Veramonte Casablanca Valley Estate, established in 1990, is one of the largest contiguous vineyards in Chile. Their Sauvignon Blanc plantings cover a total of 47 vineyards blocks. On the nose the 2010 Reserva displays sweet citrus aromas. The cooler than usual weather during harvest season has resulted in a wine that offers loads of citrus and mineral flavors, with only a hint of green apples on the finish. This is a crisp and steely wine that all you citrus fruit lovers out there should enjoy.

2009 Chateau Ste. Michelle Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley

Washington State has long been considered one of the top producers in the United States. Extending over 18,000 square miles, Columbia Valley is the state’s largest wine growing area responsible for almost 60% of the

States total production. The vast area consists of a wide range of climates, allowing vineyard managers to plant a diverse selection of grape varieties.

According to Bob Bertheau, head wine maker at Chateau Ste. Michelle, the 2009 Sauvignon Blanc growing season was near perfect. It never got really hot that summer but stayed moderate through September. This allowed the grapes to ripen evenly and retain their natural acidity and grassy character. The 2009 has received solid reviews and is a great, readily available value. The wine contains 11% Semillion and a small portion of it has been barrel fermented for added richness and complexity. This is a different style of Sauvignon Blanc, an interesting contrast to the Nobilo. Get both of them and compare. 

Enjoy!

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