Sauvignon Blanc Wines

What is Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a white grape variety celebrated for its freshness, aromatic lift and distinctive flavour profile. It is typically unoaked, allowing the grape’s natural character to shine, and is prized for producing wines that feel lively, clean and refreshing. Style varies widely depending on climate and winemaking, but acidity is always a defining feature.

Classic French Sauvignon Blanc

France is the historic home of Sauvignon Blanc, particularly in the Loire Valley. Regions such as Sancerre, Pouilly Fumé and Touraine produce elegant, restrained wines with flavours of citrus, green apple and subtle herbal notes. Flinty, mineral characters are common, especially in wines grown on limestone and silex soils, giving structure and finesse rather than overt fruitiness.

New World Sauvignon Blanc styles

New Zealand has become one of the most famous producers of Sauvignon Blanc, especially from Marlborough. These wines are bold, aromatic and immediately expressive, showing gooseberry, passion fruit, lime and fresh herbs. Chile offers a slightly softer style, often combining citrus and tropical fruit with a clean, coastal freshness. Both regions deliver excellent value and consistency.

Flavour profile of Sauvignon Blanc

Typical Sauvignon Blanc flavours include lime, lemon zest, grapefruit and green apple, often alongside gooseberry, cut grass or nettle notes. Warmer climates can bring riper tropical fruit such as passion fruit and pineapple, while cooler regions emphasise minerality and restraint. The mouthfeel is usually light to medium bodied with a crisp, dry finish.

Food pairing and drinking style

Sauvignon Blanc is highly food friendly thanks to its acidity and freshness. It pairs well with seafood, shellfish, salads, goat’s cheese and lighter vegetable dishes. It is also an excellent aperitif wine. Most Sauvignon Blanc is best enjoyed young, when its fruit and aromatics are at their most vibrant.

FAQs

Is Sauvignon Blanc always dry?
Most Sauvignon Blanc wines are dry, though a small number may have a touch of residual sweetness depending on style and region.

What is the difference between French and New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc?
French styles are usually more restrained and mineral driven, while New Zealand examples are more aromatic, fruit forward and expressive.

Does Sauvignon Blanc age well?
Most Sauvignon Blanc is designed for early drinking, but top examples from the Loire can age and develop added complexity over time.

Is Sauvignon Blanc usually oaked?
The majority of Sauvignon Blanc is unoaked, although some producers use subtle oak or lees ageing to add texture and depth.