Enjoy sauvignon blanc's French roots with Touraine varieties
Aug. 10—New Zealand defined sauvignon blanc for a generation after the introduction of the Cloudy Bay version, which propelled what was an obscure regional or blending variety in France to international recognition.
But now you can find sauvignon blanc from just about everywhere. California and Argentina produce some excellent ones, and other regions hope to capture the grape variety's recognition.
Known for its herbal, fruity, zippy and pungent character, sauvignon blanc has its historical roots in France. In the Loire Valley, France's overlooked wine cornucopia, sauvignon blanc is used to make the flagship sancerre as well as other Loire sub-regions large and small. One of the larger regions in central Loire is Touraine.
For those who love the intensity of some sauvignon blanc, Domaine Du Chapitre 2021 Touraine Sauvignon Blanc shows piney and herbal smells with flavors of lime and white grapefruit plus a strong acidity. The wine pairs great with food or as a foil for goat cheese like feta. $12. HHHH
Bordeaux is a region of blenders, so sauvignon blanc is most likely to appear in white Bordeaux wines. Chateau La Freynelle 2022 Bordeaux is a blend of sauvignon blanc, semillon and the rare grape muscadelle, used to add aromatics to the blend. The wine has lime and pine smells with a bright and soft feel and just enough acidity to make it an easy-drinking, all-purpose white. $14. HHHH 1/2
It can be a challenge to find affordable French wines, but some styles and sub-regions still offer deals. Add the strength of the dollar, supply chain recovery and COVID's economic ripples, and you'll be singing "La Marseillaise."
GRADE: Exceptional HHHHH, Above average HHHH, Good HHH, Below average HH, Poor H
DAVID FALCHEK, executive director of the American Wine Society, reviews wines each week.
GRADE: Exceptional HHHHH, above average HHHH, Good HHH, Below average HH, Poor H
DAVID FALCHEK, executive director of the american Wine Society, reviews wines each week.
