The Wild White, better known as Sauvignon Blanc, is one of the most widely planted grapes around the globe, having acreage in almost every wine region in the world because of its wide range of flavors, depending on the terroir. The grape is related to Traminer, and originates in the south of France. Depending on the environment in which the grapes are grown, and on how ripe the grapes are at harvest, the flavor profile can range from fruits of lime, green apple, and passion fruit, to white peach. What makes Sauvignon Blanc unique from other white wines are the complimentary herbaceous flavors like bell pepper, jalapeño, gooseberry, and grass. These characteristics come from aromatic compounds called pyrazines, and the secret to its signature style.
With the back-to-school season upon us, this is a good time to go back to “wine” school and get down to basics; to go back to the root of your wine enthusiasm. Whether you drink wine for sport or edification, it always enriches the experience to get down to the roots. Going back to basics is always a good exercise, to not only enhance your experience, but to refresh the mind and awaken your palate to new experiences.
Do you hear "Merlot" and roll your eyes? Do you go to the wine store and automatically pass the Merlot by without even consideration? Consider re-wiring your mind, forget the negative connotations brought on by the movie “Sideways,” and some bad rumors about California, and give it another swirl. The movie “Sideways” did a number on Merlot sales in 2004, thanks to Miles Raymond, played by Paul Giamatti. He basically trashed Merlot with one line, when he belted out, “No, if anyone orders Merlot, I'm leaving. I am NOT drinking any f#$&!@* Merlot!”
This week, City Vino is indeed twice thankful. We are first thankful for our staff, our customers, and club members for your support again this past year. We love to be able to expand our customer’s wine experiences by sharing wines from small producers and small lots that you will not find in a supermarket or a big chain wine shop. Being able to assist you to pick a bottle or two or twelve for your everyday table, family or friend gathering, or that incredibly special occasion, means so very much to us.
When we think of certain grapes, we may immediately think of the specific country, region, or specific city, and it is often the place where the grape originated or first attained notoriety. The Albariño grape may lead you to think of Northwest Spain’s Rias Baixas region, and Pinot Noir may bring you to Burgundy, in France. If you shop wine store shelves, often you may see the name of a familiar grape, but from a place far away from the grape’s origins.
This week City Vino’s tasting will feature wines made with the grapes that will perhaps lead you to say (or at least think) “I didn’t know they grew that there.”
