Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a green-skinned grape variety that originates from the Bordeaux region of France. The grape most likely gets its name from the French words sauvage ("wild") and blanc ("white") due to its early origins as an indigenous grape in South West France. It is now planted in many of the world's wine regions, producing a crisp, dry, and refreshing white varietal wine. The flavor profile of Sauvignon Blanc can vary from aggressively grassy to sweetly tropical depending on the climate and techniques used in the winemaking process.

History

Sauvignon Blanc is believed to have originated in Western France in the Loire Valley and Bordeaux Regions. The grape was first cultivated in France in the 18th century. It came to prominence in the late 20th century when winemakers in the New Zealand wine region began to produce top-quality wines that gained international recognition.

Viticulture

Sauvignon Blanc is a vigorous vine, that buds late but ripens early, which allows it to perform well in sunny climates when not exposed to overwhelming heat. The grape clusters are small and cylindrical, with compact and deep-green berries. The variety is very sensitive to the climate where it grows, which can lead to significant differences in taste.

Winemaking

Sauvignon Blanc is usually consumed young, as it does not benefit from aging, unlike Chardonnay. The wine is fermented at a low temperature, which preserves the fruity and fresh character of the grape. Some producers use oak aging to add more complexity to the wine.

Regions

Sauvignon Blanc is grown in many wine regions around the world. The most famous regions are in France, particularly Bordeaux and the Loire Valley. Other significant regions include South Africa, Chile, Australia, and New Zealand.

Food Pairing

Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with fish, cheese, parsley, and it is one of the few wines that can pair well with sushi.

See Also

• Chardonnay
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Merlot
• Pinot Noir