The Sauvignon Blanc Grape

Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most popular grapes in the world.

It originates from Bordeaux and/or the Loire Valley in France. The name means "Wild White".

Sauvignon Blanc is very aromatic. It is known for high fruit and green herbal aromas.

Depending on climate and terroir, the primary aromas can change from grassy to tropical.

Less ripe grapes (cold regions) produce lime, grapefruit, apple, and gooseberry flavors, together with herb qualities like fresh-cut grass, black current leaves, and green pepper.

Ripe grapes (warm regions) add tropical fruit aromas like melon, peach, passion fruit, and lychee.

However, the herbal green character is a common denominator wherever it is grown.

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The Father of Cabernet Sauvignon

A sensational discovery was made in 1996 at the University of California (UC Davis):

About 600 years ago a new vine was born in a French love affair.

With a little help from the wind, and/or perhaps some insects, a spontaneous crossing happened between Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc and the baby Cabernet Sauvignon was born.

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Sauvignon Blanc Vinification

Sweet Blend. The mold Botrytis Cinerea is required for the production of sweet wines, such as Sauternes and Barsac, a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.

Alias. In 1960`s Robert Mondavi coined the new name Fumé Blanc but did not register it as his own trademark. Fumé (french for smocky) refers to barrel aging and to Pouilly-Fumé. Today Fumé Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc are synonyms in US law and not always oaked.

Confusion. Pouilly-Fumé is a french white wine, from Loire, made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc. It should not be confused with Pouilly-Fuissé , a chardonnay wine from the south of Burgundy (Mâcon).

AOC Sancerre is an appellation in Loire Valley. White Sancerre is 100% Sauvignon Blanc. While red Sancerre is 100% Pinot Noir.

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Steel Tank

To retain the characteristic fruity, grassy and citrusy aromas is Sauvignon Blanc fermented in Stainless Steel Tanks (not in oak).