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The History Of Sauvignon Blanc

The History of Sauvignon Blanc shows that this wine variety originated in the Gironde area of southwest of France during the seventeenth century where it may have been called Petit Sauvignon or Jaune. In western and central France, Sauvignon Blanc was (and still is) known as Sauvignon Fume or Fume Blanc.

Like many other wine grapes which originated in France, Sauvignon Blanc Grapes have been adopted by many other countries. Back in 1832 a new chapter in the history of Sauvignon Blanc wines was written when Australian wineries began cultivation of Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Australia's and New Zealand's warm climate would prove to be excellent conditions for Sauvignon Blanc grapes to thrive. They began making (and continue to make) some of the most sought-after Sauvignon Blanc wines in the world.

As you would expect, there is a long history of Sauvignon Blanc wines in France. Sauvignon Blanc wines are particularly important to the world-famous Bordeaux region in the south of France and to the Sancerre and Pouilly regions of the Loire Valley in the west of France. Sauvignon Blanc wines have also become quite popular with Californian wineries as well.

The vine on which the Sauvignon Blanc grapes come from is vigorous and upright in its growth, with small broad leaves and short bunches of berries with thick skins. Much like Merlot Grapes, the characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc grapes differ greatly depending on which country and climate they are grown in.

Historically speaking, the Bordeaux region of France produces wines from the Sauvignon Blanc grape that are rich and sweet and are usually served as dessert wines. While Sauvignon Blanc wines from the Sancerre region tend to be dry and steely.

Sauvignon Blanc wines from Australia can have a high acidity and vegetable palate (grassy, gooseberry) and they are sometimes wooded which introduces a pleasant smokiness to the palette. In New Zealand, which is fast becoming well know for its production of high quality Sauvignon Blanc wines, this wine shows amazingly specific characteristics especially when young. (see Sauvignon Blanc Wine Recommendations.)

Throughout the history of Sauvignon Blanc wine, it has always been a versatile and complex wine with its characteristics changing depending on the climate in which it is grown.