Sauvignon Blanc, a Bordeaux varietal that is also doing great things in New Zealand and Napa (among other places), is a friend to oysters, most cheeses but especially goat’s milk cheeses, and most things herbaceous, briny, or tangy. It also has an affinity for the smell of freshly cut grass, making it a wonderful back porch wine after an invigorating afternoon of yardwork. So, like, go do some yardwork and then crack one open! Here are some suggestions at pretty much every price point.
Seven Bottles to Try
Chateau Peybonhomme-les-Tours “Le Blanc Bonhomme” (Bordeaux, $19) Blended with Semillon and beautifully balanced. Also, sustainability alert: Biodynamically produced and organic certified. Pear. Lemon. Linden. Orange. Wet stone. Fabulous.
Geyser Peak California Sauvignon Blanc (CA, $12) The 2017 iteration of this wine shows off Geyser Peak’s hallmark “fresh” style of Sauvignon Blanc. Citrusy, a little grassy, zingy acidity.
Geyser Peak River Ranches Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley 2017 (Russian River Valley, $22) Vibrant fresh grass notes, green fig, honeydew melon, lime and mint. The dictionary definition of “refreshing.” I had it with a Thai curry not long ago and thought it was splendid.
Oak Farm Sauvignon Blanc (Lodi, CA $19) Sustainably produced alert! LODI RULES certified establishments, like Oak Farm Vineyards, are required to adopt over 100 strict sustainability practices or “standards” that ensure everything from business management to pest control is environmentally, socially and economically friendly. Their Sauvignon Blanc channels a New Zealand style with a strong kiwi fruit character and a tangy grapefruit finish.
2018 Outlot Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County (Sonoma, $19) Medium bodied on the palate with vibrant lemongrass, tangelo and melon flavors. A friend to spicy food.
Peter Yealands Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand, $12) Minerality, minerality, minerality. Pineapple guava, some green notes, a little pineapple. Delish.
Yalumba Sauvignon Blanc (Australia, $10) Wild-fermented and favoring wildflowers-coincidence? No clue; maybe. It’s very herbaceous, a little brisk, with acidity that doesn’t mess around. Good choice for hot weather.