Sauvignon Blanc
Crisp, zesty and herbal, with grapefruit and fresh-cut grass. It's grown across California, Washington and Virginia, and often labeled Fumé Blanc when oaked.
Sauvignon Blanc is the crisp, zesty white grape behind Sancerre in France's Loire Valley and the white wines of Bordeaux, where it's blended with Sémillon. It's one of the most recognizable white wines in the world, and American wineries make it in styles ranging from bright and grassy to rich and oaked.
What It Tastes Like
Expect grapefruit, lime, green apple and passion fruit, along with herbal notes of fresh-cut grass, bell pepper or jalapeño. Acidity is high and refreshing. Oak-aged versions, often labeled Fumé Blanc in California, have more body, with melon, fig and vanilla.
Where It Grows
Napa Valley and Sonoma (especially Dry Creek Valley and the Russian River Valley) are the heart of California Sauvignon Blanc, with Lake County, Santa Barbara County and Livermore Valley close behind. Washington's Columbia Valley, Virginia, New York's North Fork of Long Island and the Texas High Plains also make good examples.
What to Look For
- Crisp, unoaked Sauvignon Blanc, ideal for warm days.
- Fumé Blanc, the richer, oaked California style.
- White Bordeaux-style blends with Sémillon.
Where to Find Sauvignon Blanc
Wine regions on American Winery Guide where Sauvignon Blanc is grown or poured: