Weekly Feature – Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is an international grape variety that grows all over the world and can be expressed in many ways. It is the parent (along with Cabernet Franc) of the famous son Cabernet Sauvignon that is also an international grape variety. Perhaps it is most famously grown in New Zealand, where it expresses as high acid, aromas and flavours of guava, passionfruit and even notoriously “cat pee”. In the Loire valley it is famous in Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume where flinty, smoky and minerality notes rule. Perhaps most famous of all however is Bordeaux where it is typically blended with Semillon and can use various degrees of oak. The Autumn climate is perfect in the Graves area to create Noble rot (Botrytis) that imparts itself into the flavour profile of Sauternes and Barsac. These sweet wines command high prices and can age for decades.
Excellent examples of Sauvignon Blanc to try at CLS:
Chatelain Desjacques – Loire Valley. This mouthwatering, delicious Sauvignon Blanc has zesty acidity and tropical fruit flavours and aromas with just a hint of the typical grassiness underneath. At this price you might want to get a case! Perfect for the patio this summer along with a bowl of salt and vinegar chips! Drink now. $19.99
Domaine de Chevalier White Bordeaux- known for not just quality reds, but tasty and ageable white wines. This is a blend of 70% Sauvignon Blanc with 30% Semillon which is typically used in the white Bordeaux for body and mouth feel. This elegant white shows spicy yellow fruits, honey and beeswax. Drink now to 2036. $192.99
Coming soon - Domaine de Carrou Sancerre- from one of the most famous regions for growing this grape, Domaine de Carrou has been growing grapes in the region since the early 18th century. Grapes were chosen from selected plots in the four prime locations of Sancerre. This wine is clean and bright showing ripe fruit and racy acidity. Gorgeous!
Coming soon - Sunday Sail Sauvignon Blanc- New Zealand is well know for its Sauvignon Blancs with zesty acidity and loads of terpine flavours of passionfruit, guava, lemongrass, fresh cut grass and other “green” aromas and flavours. This wine reminds one of Sunday afternoons on a glass lake with a light breeze. Typical, but not too grassy, it’s just right.