Just in time for International Sauvignon Blanc Day (May 2nd), we’re doing a little refresher on all things Sauvignon Blanc! 

One of the parent grapes to Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc is an aromatic white wine grape that originated in Loire Valley, France. Part of why it’s such an aromatic varietal is from methoxypyrazines compounds, which give off green aromas, like green pepper. While this used to be off putting for some, winemakers have found ways to temper how strong the aromatics are by tending to the vines. Sauvignon Blanc’s profile changes based on where it’s grown, but it typically has notes of gooseberry, honeydew, grapefruit, peach, and passion fruit. It makes the perfect partner for herb-driven sauces, Asian fare, poultry, and soft cheeses.

While New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is quite popular, it can be found in places with a cool climate, where it may be better known by the appellation name instead of the grape. 

Chile

Chilean Sauvignon Blanc tends to be light and refreshing with citrus-forward notes.

Rayun Sauvignon Blanc 2024

France

Sauvignon Blanc is famously found in appellations like Sancerre, Bordeaux, and Pouilly Fume. These wines tend to be more mineral-driven, and in the case of Bordeaux, blended with Semillon. 

Chateau Guiraud 1er Grand Cru Sauternes 2005
Chateau Turcaud Entre-Deux-Mers Sec 2023
Domaine de la Potine Touraine Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Domaine du Colombier Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Domaine Raimbault-Pineau Sancerre Blanc 2023
Domaine Sauger Tradition Cheverny Blanc 2020
Domaine Yves Martin Sancerre Chavignol 2023

New Zealand

Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand typically showcase more tropical fruit notes with citrus and gooseberry in the background. 

Mount Riley Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2024

South Africa

Quite similarly to New Zealand, Sauvignon Blancs in South Africa have more tropical fruit notes with slight herb, spice, and flint notes to round it out. 

Fairvalley Sauvignon Blanc 2024

United States

Mainly found in the west coast of the United States (California and Washington), Sauvignon Blanc wines can be a bit more vibrant with notes of cut grass and citrus.

Hobo Wine Company Jeanne d’Arc Skin Contact Chenin Blanc 2023
Palazzo Wine Napa Valley Cuvee Blanc 2017

Grape Photo Courtesy of UC Davis Foundation Plant Services