Refresh Summer with Sauvignon Blanc

Summer is here and it’s time for white wine. Whether you are ready to expand your wine knowledge beyond Chardonnay or you want to take a hiatus from Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc is a good place to start.

The name Sauvignon evolved from the French word sauvage (wild) and blanc for white. The grape probably originated in the Bordeaux region and migrated north to the Loire Valley where it was extensively cultivated. Cuttings came to America in the 1880s, and became popular when Robert Mondavi marketed it as Fumé Blanc.

As the grape was cultivated in various regions of the world, it took on slightly different characteristics. Cold climate grapes tend to be zesty with high acidity (think green pepper and green grass with tropical fruit notes). While warm climate grapes tend to produce notes of grapefruit and peach. In the Loire Valley, wine produced in the area of Sancerre became very popular in early 20th century Paris bistros and is still a popular, affordable option in France. Unfortunately, it tends to be pricey in the U.S. Puilly-Fumé and Cheverny are also made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes. In Bordeaux, Sauvignon Blanc is generally blended with Chardonnay and Semillion for a white Bordeaux blend. Although Sauvignon Blanc is not generally oak aged, some white Bordeaux blends are. However, Sauvignon Blanc should generally be drunk young. Sauternes is a French sweet dessert wine made from Sauvignon Blanc. Sauvignon Blanc is a great wine to drink with lighter fare, such as roasted vegetables, white fish, pasta salad or sushi and is a great wine to serve on the patio to compliment lighter meals. Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc is now available in cans, making it a convenient choice for the poolside. Enjoy, Kathy