Sauvignon Blanc is one of the world’s most beloved white wines. It’s refreshing and zesty, elegant but easy-going too, and it’s the perfect partner for a whole spectrum of foods and occasions. As Jancis Robinson, MW points out Sauvignon Blanc’s popularity is on the ascent.
Whether you’re a long-time lover of Sauvignon Blanc, or a curious wine-tasting beginner, our Ultimate Guide to Sauvignon Blanc will tell you all you need to know about this versatile, globe-trotting grape. We’ll journey through its history, the regions that grow it all over the world, some tasting notes, and ideal food pairings, deepening your appreciation for this grape-for-all-seasons – and helping you choose your next bottle too.
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£131.99 – £263.99Top quality, award-winning New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. From the land of the long white cloud – this is the ultimate collection of Kiwi Sauvignons. From new small scale, boutique offerings with great stories, to established trophy-winning producers, to top Organic wines, and small parcels, these are the crème de la [...]Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
History of Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc traces its origins back to the Bordeaux region of France, where it was first cultivated in the 18th century. The grape’s name is derived from the French words “sauvage,” meaning wild, and “blanc,” meaning white, describing its early growth in the wild. Going from these humble beginnings in France to the global prominence it has today, Sauvignon Blanc first gained international recognition when it spread to the Loire Valley, where it became the foundation for iconic wines like Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. Its natural vigour and adaptability allowed it to flourish in a variety of climates, from the cool valleys of France to the sunny vineyards of New Zealand, Chile, and beyond.
It’s also believed that Sauvignon Blanc is a parent to the famous Cabernet Sauvignon grape, making it a vital part of wine history – as well as being a legend in its own right.
Characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is renowned for its distinctive aromatic profile, high acidity, and versatile flavour range. The grape produces wines that are typically light to medium-bodied, with a bright and refreshing character. Its aromas can range from grassy and herbaceous to intensely fruity, often featuring notes of green apple, lime, passionfruit, and elderflower. The acidity in Sauvignon Blanc is one of its defining features, regardless of where its grown – giving the wine a crisp, zesty quality that makes it incredibly food-friendly.
Where is Sauvignon Blanc Produced?
Sauvignon Blanc is a true global traveller, thriving in diverse wine regions across the world – a feat that not all grape varieties achieve. Some of the most notable regions include:
- Loire Valley, France: particularly in the areas of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé; the earth here is especially rich in minerals, making for a very elegant Sauvignon Blanc.
- Bordeaux, France: here, Sauvignon Blanc is often blended with Semillon to produce complex white wines that age well.
- Marlborough, New Zealand: famous for its vibrant, tropical fruit notes that have become synonymous with New World Sauvignon Blanc.
- Chile: regions like Casablanca and Leyda Valley produce citrusy and refreshing styles.
- South Africa: the Stellenbosch and Elgin regions have quite unique terroirs with their combined altitude and maritime climates, bringing green fruit notes to their Sauvignon Blanc.
- Australia: notable areas include Adelaide Hills and Margaret River, offering a range of styles from crisp to fuller-bodied wines.
Sauvignon Blanc Tasting Notes
Sauvignon Blanc’s flavour profile can vary widely depending on where it’s grown, but some common characteristics are found across most examples of this grape – and it’s known for its pronounced and often pungent nose, wherever its from. Typical Sauvignon Blanc aromas and flavours include:
- Citrus fruits: lime, lemon, and grapefruit are commonly found, contributing to the wine’s refreshing nature.
- Tropical fruits: in warmer climates, you might find more exotic notes like passionfruit, guava, and pineapple.
- Herbaceous notes: fresh-cut grass, green bell pepper, and even hints of asparagus or tomato leaf.
- Mineral notes: particularly in wines from cooler climates like the Loire Valley, you might detect flinty, chalky, or wet stone aromas.
- Stone fruits: subtle hints of peach and nectarine can be present, especially in more complex Sauvignon Blanc wines.
On the palate, Sauvignon Blanc is typically high in acidity, with its flavours mirroring its aromas. The wine can range from bone-dry to slightly off-dry, with a clean, zesty finish that makes it a perfect partner for a variety of dishes.
The difference between Old World and New World Sauvignon Blanc
The distinction between Old World (European) and New World (non-European) Sauvignon Blancs is significant, reflecting the differences in winemaking traditions, climate, and terroir between the two.
Old World Sauvignon Blancs, such as those from France, are typically grown in a cooler climate. The grape tends to produce wines with higher acidity, which makes it quite a subtle wine, with herbaceous flavours like green apple, lime and flint. They often have a leaner body and a more pronounced acidity, making them particularly food-friendly.
New World Sauvignon Blancs (from regions like New Zealand and California) enjoy a more tropical climate, and their Sauvignon Blanc develops bold, ripe fruit flavours like mango, passionfruit, and melon – which also give a more intense aroma. The acidity is still present, but is usually less sharp, making the wine rounder and more approachable.
Soil composition also impacts the wine’s character; so the limestone-rich soils of the Loire Valley impart a distinct minerality, while the volcanic soils of New Zealand’s Marlborough region give real intensity and brightness to the wine.
Popular Sauvignon Blanc Styles
Sauvignon Blanc offers a wide spectrum of styles, catering to a wide range of different palates – there’s truly a Sauvignon Blanc for everyone!
Crisp and Zesty Sauvignon Blanc: this is the most common style, characterised by high acidity, bright citrus flavours, and a refreshing, light body. These wines are typically unoaked, allowing the grape’s natural flavours to shine through. They are perfect for summer sipping or pairing with light dishes.
Rich and Complex Sauvignon Blanc: some winemakers choose to ferment or age Sauvignon Blanc in oak barrels, which adds that depth and complexity to the wine. These styles might show notes of vanilla, toast, and a creamier texture, balancing the wine’s natural acidity with a fuller body. These wines are often suited for more robust food pairings and can age very well.
Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc: while not as common as still versions, sparkling Sauvignon Blancs offer a great twist on this versatile grape. The bubbles add an extra layer of freshness and a celebratory feel, while the wine keeps its characteristic zestiness and vibrant fruit flavours. These sparkling versions are typically dry, making them an excellent aperitif or accompaniment to a variety of foods.
Sweet and Dessert-Style Sauvignon Blancs: although Sauvignon Blanc is most commonly associated with dry wines, it can be made into sweet, dessert-style wines too. A later grape harvest concentrates the sugars and flavours, and the result is a rich, honeyed wine with balancing acidity. The flavours that come through are those of ripe stone fruits, honey, and sometimes a touch of botrytis (or ‘noble rot’ – which doesn’t sound good, but actually produces some of the world’s sweetest and most sought-after wines!). Sweet Sauvignon Blanc is perfect for pairing with desserts or strong cheeses.
Key Sauvignon Blanc Regions
Loire Valley, France
The Loire Valley is the spiritual home of Sauvignon Blanc, particularly in the appellations of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. These wines are known for their precision, elegance, and distinct minerality. Sancerre wines are typically more delicate, with bright citrus and green apple notes, while Pouilly-Fumé often has a smoky, flinty quality (“fumé” meaning smoke in French).
The cool climate of the Loire Valley retains the grapes’ high acidity, producing wines that are crisp and refreshing. The region’s diverse soils, ranging from limestone to flint to clay, communicate a real sense of origin and place – each terroir contributes its distinct characteristics to the wine. Sampling wines from each one is a real geographic voyage of discovery!
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£13.99This exciting find is made in Touraine by Thierry Delaunay, the fifth-generation owner of Domaine Joël Delaunay. Grapefruit, fresh lime and a subtle touch of tropical fruit aromas fill the nose. These bright fruits continue onto the palate, which is round, fleshy and framed by a delicate touch of sweetness. […]
Bordeaux, France
In Bordeaux, Sauvignon Blanc is often blended with Semillon and sometimes Muscadelle to create Bordeaux Blanc. These wines range from light and zesty to rich and complex, depending on the blend and winemaking techniques. Sauvignon Blanc contributes acidity and freshness, while Semillon adds body and depth.
Bordeaux Sauvignon Blancs are typically more rounded than their Loire Valley counterparts, with a balance of citrus and tropical fruit flavours, and often a subtle hint of oak. These wines can age well, developing richer, more honeyed characteristics over time.
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£13.99Double guyot trained vines found on clay, silt and sand soils near to the Dordogne River. Machine harvested grapes with use of traditional methods of viticulture. Exceptionally balanced Bordeaux white, light and refreshing with the perfume of elderflower balanced by lemon and lime in the mouth.
Marlborough, New Zealand
Marlborough has become synonymous with Sauvignon Blanc, producing some of the most recognisable expressions of this grape. The region’s wines are celebrated for their intense fruit flavours, particularly passionfruit, gooseberry, and grapefruit, combined with a lively acidity that makes them incredibly refreshing.
Marlborough’s cool, maritime climate, coupled with high sunshine hours and well-drained soils, creates the perfect conditions for Sauvignon Blanc. The long growing season allows the grapes to develop full flavour while retaining acidity, resulting in wines that are vibrant, aromatic, and full of character.
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£22.99Always one of my favourite wines when I worked for Kim Crawford wines in 2002, this small batch, single vineyard Sauvignon Blanc is hugely aromatic with notes of passionfruit, nettles, gooseberry and citrus. The vibrant, complex palate launches a concentrated burst of juicy tropical fruits and grapefruit backed with minerality […]
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£22.50Made by one of New Zealand’s most respected winemakers, and ex Head Honcho at Cloudy Bay for over 25 years, this wine has achieved something of a cult status since its inception. Winemaker Kevin Judd remains instrumental in the international recognition which Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc continues to enjoy. The nose […]
Chilean Sauvignon Blanc
Chile’s coastal regions, particularly Casablanca and Leyda Valley, are emerging as top locations for high-quality Sauvignon Blanc. The wines from these areas are known for their crisp, citrusy profile, often with notes of green apple and subtle herbaceous undertones.
The proximity to the Pacific Ocean means that these vineyards benefit from cooling coastal breezes, which help preserve the grape’s natural acidity. The mountainous terrain also provides a variety of microclimates and soil types, adding complexity to the wines.
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£9.50Named after the patron saint of Chile, Santiago Sauvignon Blanc really over delivers. Fermented at low temperatures to maintain the freshness of the fruit flavours. Quite simply a great expression of Sauvignon Blanc. Medium bodied with good acidity, it’s not as green as some sauvignons but is filled with lots […]
South African Sauvignon Blanc
South Africa’s Stellenbosch and Elgin regions are gaining recognition for their distinctive Sauvignon Blancs. These wines often show a balance between Old World restraint and New World fruitiness, with flavours ranging from green fig and lime to more tropical notes.
The altitude of the vineyards in regions like Elgin, combined with cooling ocean influences, create unusual growing conditions that produce wines with bright acidity and a fresh, clean profile. The diverse terroirs offers a range of styles, from lean and minerally like those of the Old World, to richer, more fruit-forward flavours that are more typical of New World Sauvignon Blancs.
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£13.99Floral notes with a complex medley of tropical fruits, mingled with subtle lime and gooseberry undertones. The palate is balanced and rich, showing cut green apples with great minerality and texture. Sophie te’Blanche, a nickname given by those including our workers, who can’t pronounce Sauvignon Blanc, is the inspiration behind […]
Australian Sauvignon Blanc
Australia’s Sauvignon Blancs vary widely depending on the region. In cooler regions like Adelaide Hills, Sauvignon Blanc tends to be more restrained, with vibrant acidity and fresh citrus fruit flavours. In contrast, Margaret River’s warmer climate results in fuller-bodied, richer wines with riper fruit notes and sometimes a touch of oak.
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£24.99Sourced from 25 years old vines on the eastern side of our Calgardup Brook Vineyard. The fruit was picked in the cool hours of the night, whole berry pressed and taken with some solids to barriques for extra texture and aromatic complexity. Fermented in French oak barriques and puncheons (10% […]
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£20.99This wine is a blend of 52% Semillon and 48% Sauvignon Blanc from the Calgardup Brook Vineyard which lies just inland from the coast. Its soils are well drained sandy and schisty and the climate is strongly influenced by its immediate vicinity to the Indian Ocean. On the nose honeydew […]
Sauvignon Blanc Food Pairing
Sauvignon Blanc really is a wine for all seasons and all occasions, as its high acidity and vibrant flavours make it an incredibly versatile wine for food pairing all year round.
It’s the perfect summer wine, and the ideal companion for light, fresh dishes like grilled vegetables, ceviche, or a classic Caprese salad; and for festive winter celebrations, it’s perfect with the Christmas turkey or roast chicken, a seafood platter, or even a citrus-glazed ham.
- Pairing crisp and zesty Sauvignon Blancs: with dishes that mirror their freshness, such as seafood, sushi, asparagus or Thai salad.
- Pairing rich, oak-aged Sauvignon Blancs: these wines can handle more robust flavours, making them a good match for dishes like roast chicken, creamy pasta, grilled pork chops or goats cheese.
- Pairing sweet Sauvignon Blancs: perfect with desserts like fruit tarts, lemon meringue pie, or even a rich blue cheese.
How to Choose the Best Sauvignon Blanc
When choosing a Sauvignon Blanc, consider the following factors:
- Region: different regions produce different styles, so think about whether you’d prefer the crispness of a Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc, or the tropical intensity of a New Zealand one.
- Producer: established producers often have a consistent style, so look for names you trust or explore recommendations from wine experts.
- Vintage: typically, Sauvignon Blanc is best enjoyed young, within a few years of the vintage -although some oak-aged or blended styles can benefit from a few years of aging.
Understanding Sauvignon Blanc Wine Labels and Key Terms
Single Vineyard: this indicates that the grapes came from a single vineyard, which means that the wine will likely have clear characteristics of that specific terroir.
Reserve / Reserva / Riserva : this term can indicate a higher quality wine, often with more complexity or aging potential, though its meaning varies by producer and region.
Sustainable / Organic / Biodynamic: These labels indicate the vineyard’s farming practices, which may appeal to those looking for environmentally friendly options.
Sauvignon Blanc for Different Occasions
For a casual, everyday Sauvignon Blanc, consider an unoaked example from New Zealand or Chile for their lightness and freshness. For a more sophisticated choice, or for a special occasion, look for a Sancerre from the Loire Valley, or an oak-aged Sauvignon Blanc from Bordeaux.
Storing and Serving Sauvignon Blanc
Storing Sauvignon Blanc: it’s best stored in a cool, dark place, ideally at a temperature between 7-13°C – so not as cold as your kitchen refrigerator. If you’re planning to enjoy the wine within a year or two, a dedicated wine fridge or a cool cupboard will do the job; but for longer storage, you may want to consider a wine cellar or a professional wine storage facility.
Serving Temperature for Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc should be served chilled, ideally between 7-10°C – again, not straight from the fridge. Serving it too cold can mute the flavours, and serving it too warm can make the acidity seem overpowering.
Glassware for Sauvignon Blanc: use a standard white wine glass with a narrow bowl to concentrate the wine’s aromas and enhance the tasting experience. For more aromatic styles, consider a slightly larger glass to allow the wine to breathe.
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£27.50Our wine sets are perfect for picnics & festivals, dinner parties and gifting. Choose from either 2, 3 or 4 bottle options. The Original 2 Bottle New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc Wine Set features: The Frost Pocket | Sauvignon Blanc | Marlborough | New Zealand White Wine | 13% Becky Hewes [...] -
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£59.50Our wine sets are perfect for picnics & festivals, dinner parties and gifting. Choose from either 2, 3 or 4 bottle options. Organic Sauvignon Blanc | Urlar | Sauvignon Blanc | Wairarapa | New Zealand White Wine | 13.5% Becky Hewes Becky Says Urlar is Gaelic for the Earth, and [...]
Sauvignon Blanc in Summary…
Sauvignon Blanc is a fantastic all-rounder. It’s a wine that offers something for everyone, from the novice wine drinker to the seasoned connoisseur – from a five-course banquet to a summer barbecue. Whether you’re enjoying a crisp and zesty bottle on a warm summer day or savouring a richer, oak-aged version with a hearty meal, the versatility and charm of Sauvignon Blanc make it a true delight – and Handpicked Wine Box have a wide range to choose from for your next bottle…