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Sauvignon Blanc Grapes

Sauvignon Blanc Grapes are grown in many different areas around the world and many wine drinkers will be very familiar with the Sauvignon Blanc Wines from New Zealand. Sauvignon Blanc grapes are also widely grown in France in the Loire Valley, Sancerre and Bordeaux regions. Other countries around the world where Sauvignon Blanc grapes are grown include America, Australia and South Africa.

The Sauvignon Blanc grape produces a white wine that is sometimes seen by experts as being too light and acidic for serious wine drinkers. But, many others feel that wines made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes are a refreshing alternative to wines aged in oak barrels (see History Of Sauvignon Blanc). Sauvignon Blanc grapes typically produce wines that are searing with acidity and fruity flavors.

The Sauvignon Blanc grape is considered to grow best in cooler climates because when grown in hot climates it tends to produce wines which have very little fruit character. While some wineries have done quite well growing Sauvignon Blanc grapes in Australia's hot climate, wines made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes grown in South Africa have only received moderate success and this is usually attributed to South Africa's hot climate.

The Sauvignon Blanc grape comes from a vine that produces a very high yield of grapes. Sauvignon Blanc grapes must be closely controlled though, in order to produce the highest possible quality wines. Sauvignon Blanc wines are typically quite pale in color with a light to medium body. They are also typically high in acidity and very aromatic. Sauvignon Blanc grapes are sometimes blended with Semillon grapes and are then barrel aged to give a notably richer style of Sauvignon Blanc wine.

Common flavors produced from the Sauvignon Blanc grapes grown in cooler climates include green apple, melon, gooseberry, passion fruit and mango. Sauvignon Blanc grapes grown in warmer climates typically have herbaceous aromas such as that of grass, herbs, green peas and bell peppers.

Wines made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes are ideal when paired with goat cheese because of their high acidity. They are also a good combination with light flavored seafood such as crab. (see Wine and Food Pairings and Wine and Cheese Pairing.) Sauvignon Blanc wine is a light, crisp and refreshing wine that is easy to drink. (see Sauvignon Blanc Wine Recommendations)

Are you interested in growing your own grapes at home? If so, I can personally recommend this book by Danie Wium. I recently began growing my own grapes for use in winemaking and this book was an invaluable tool along the way.