Sauvignon Blanc Billl Zacharkiw, Special to Urban Expressions Published on: December 10, 2014 | Last Updated: December 10, 2014 11:51 AM EST Got a minute? Need an inexpensive wine to get you through to the weekend? Every week Gazette wine critic Bill Zacharkiw recommends a wine and talks a little about the grape that went into making it. This week, Bill talks to us about the sauvignon blanc grape in France’s Loire region. While many think New Zealand when they think about sauvignon blanc, the grape is actually relatively new to the country. For me, when I think sauvignon blanc I think of the Centre-Loire, and specifically the appellations of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. The reality is that the grape can be found nearly everywhere these days, and each place has its own take on it. What’s so special about the Loire sauvignon blanc? For me, it’s both texture and aromatics. Especially in places like Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, its two most famous appellations, you’ll find much more pure citrus aromas: lime, lemon, grapefruit. Texture wise, you will find more body and opulence compared to the Kiwi take on the grape. They also are completely dry whereas most New Zealand sauvignon blanc has a certain sweetness on the finish. And finally there is the mineral and herbal component. There is almost always a “green component” to sauvignon blanc. Whereas in New Zealand it tends to be more of a green pepper or asparagus note, in the Loire it tends to be grassier. I also find a certain chalkiness on the finish, especially in Sancerre.
Posted on: Sun, 14 Dec 2014 21:35:58 +0000
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