Photograph by Katherine Bish
As summertime approaches, taste buds crave something that’s fresh and clean, like a light, aromatic, dry white wine. In this category, one increasingly popular grape varietal really stands out: sauvignon blanc, or “SB” to its devotees. The grape originated in the Bordeaux region of France, where it contributes to both the dry and sweet wines of the area. These days, SBs can also be found in almost every major wine-growing region in the world. In cooler climates, the grape will exhibit intense aromas of lychee and fresh-cut grass, while in warmer climates it develops more ripe grapefruit and tropical citrus. Except on a few rare occasions, sauvignon blanc should be consumed young, while still crisp. Below are four SBs that show the depth and range of the varietal. Don’t be shocked when you find one of them—and many other SBs—under a screw cap. Get used to it. Befriend screw caps like a Facebook pal. And kiss cork-tainted wine goodbye.
2007 Huia, Marlborough, New Zealand
This small producer is one of my favorites. The nose of gooseberry and ripe citrus is intense; on the palate, there are bright grapefruit and passion fruit with a hint of lemon zest on the finish. How good is this wine? I suggest you buy several bottles at once…and save yourself that unnecessary trip back to the wine store. ($20 at The Wine Merchant)
2007 Honig, Napa Valley, Calif.
This wine is almost as exuberant as Michael Honig himself. Citrus aromas of pink grapefruit, lime, and lemongrass combine with tropical flavors of mango, honeydew, and star fruit. This easy-to-find wine has a soft but vibrant finish that goes down easy, sip after sip after sip. ($15 at The Wine Merchant)
2006 Roblin, Château de Maimbray, Sancerre, Loire Valley, France
Subdued and rustic with aromas of lemon, lime, mint, and a bit of flint that carries through on the palate. It’s a classic Sancerre: delicate minerality balanced with grapefruit and floral notes on the finish. Big and expressive, this old-world sauvignon will not disappoint. ($27 at Lukas Liquor)
2008 Casa Lapostolle, Rapel Valley, Chile
A powerhouse of wine scents is yours for only $10: white nectarine, pear, and white flowers dominate the nose along with citrus fruit and tangerine. Fresh herbs of rosemary and cilantro appear on the palate along with delicate gooseberry and dried lychee. Soft, easy to drink, and super-affordable—and these days, that last adjective appeals to
everyone. ($10 at Lukas Liquor)
