»Sweetheart« Sauvignon Blanc Weingut Oliver Zeter 2014 - Falstaff (2024)

FAQs

How can you tell a good Sauvignon Blanc? ›

Tasting Sauvignon Blanc

On the nose, expect pungent, in-your-face aromas ranging from freshly cut grass, peas and asparagus, to tropical and ripe passion fruit, grapefruit, or even mango. On the palate wines taste light bodied with racy acidity and moderate alcohol. Occasionally, Sauvignon Blanc ages in oak.

Wines made from Sauvignon Blanc are noted for their green herbaceous flavors, often paired with a touch of minerality. The flavor profiles exhibited by the grape will depend on whether the grape is grown in a cool or warm climate, and run the spectrum from citrus or orchard fruit, to full-on tropical fruit.

Wine experts have used the phrase "crisp, elegant, and fresh" as a favourable description of Sauvignon blanc from the Loire Valley and New Zealand. Sauvignon blanc, when slightly chilled, pairs well with fish or cheese, particularly chèvre. It is also known as one of the few wines that can pair well with sushi.

Having said that, we've found that our Fumé Blanc (dry Sauvignon Blanc) usually peaks within two to three years and, though it can last for around eight years, is best enjoyed young to enjoy all of its fresh flavors and clean acidity.

If Sauvignon Blanc is your go-to, your personality likely bubbles with energy, outgoingness, and a spirit of adventure. Your zest for life and love for new experiences mirror the crisp, refreshing notes of this white wine. Your vibrant personality draws people towards you, lighting up any room you enter.

Chardonnay vs Sauvignon Blanc: Tasting Notes

Chardonnay is richer and fuller-bodied, sometimes with a viscous mouthfeel. Sauvignon Blanc can be more light, bright, and herbaceous. Both Chardonnay and Sauv Blanc are traditionally quite dry, but some Sauvignon Blancs contain residual sugar, making them sweeter.

Calories in white wine is a predominant reason why they can be considered healthy. And besides the 129 calories you'll have in a serving of sweet white wine, a glass of Sauvignon blanc is full of antioxidants, thanks to phenolic compounds that improve your body's ability to fight oxidative stress.

Sauvignon Blanc is most famously produced in Marlborough, New Zealand and France, where (in the former) its telltale gooseberry and grapefruit notes shine most brightly. It also does well in Australia, particularly Margaret River in the far west of the country, in addition to the Adelaide Hills.

The average price of the wines I reviewed below is more than $41 per bottle. Gone are the days when you could get a nice bottle of California Sauvignon Blanc from a boutique producer for $15 or $20. Now you'll often pay north of $40, and occasionally more than $100.

When should you drink Sauvignon Blanc? ›

Most Sauvignon Blanc should be consumed early and with a chill, so keep a few bottles on hand in the refrigerator.

Sauvignon Blanc Tasting Notes

Primary fruit flavours are citrus-led with lime as well as green apple, passion fruit, peach and distinctive gooseberry coming to the fore. Freshly cut grass and herbaceous notes of green bell pepper are also common, particularly with quality editions from France.

Depending on where it's grown and who's producing it, Sauvignon Blanc can be fruit-driven and mouth watering with citrus aromas and flavors, or more savory with distinct vegetal notes that skew in the direction of fresh-cut grass or bell peppers. Sometimes, it's all of the above!