Sauvignon in comparison to Chardonnay  is very different. It is known to be pale, relatively light, acidic and mostly unoaked. Whereas Chardonnay is golden colored, and full of oaky flavour. Some may think Chardonnay is more superior of a grape but a well made Sauvignon Blanc is light, refreshing and full of complexity.

There are several types of this wine. From the Bordeaux region, a cooler climate, this wine is almost always blended with Semillon. From the center region of France, the Loire valley, the best known and loved appellations are Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume. They are situated on opposite sides of the river, Sancerre in the west and Pouilly-Fume in the east. Sauvignon at its best from here captures elements of refreshing green fruit flavours, vivid acidity and smoky aromas, however unoaked. Some wines from other regions outside of France labeled Fume Blanc most often had undergone oak related wine making treatment.

Outside of France, it is grown in most regions however New Zealand excels at making Sauvignon Blanc. Unlike French, these wines are less bone-dry and are more vibrant and colorful.

Susy Atkins, suggests trying a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough region.

From Europe, she suggests trying a inexpensive Sauvignon de Touraine from the Loire Valley in France, or Sauvignon that says Vin de Pays du Jardin de la France.

When tasting, make sure the wine is chilled well.

References: Susy Atkins. "Wine Wisdom: a complete wine-tasting course", Quadrille Publishing Limited, 2004.

Stuart Walton. "The World Encyclopedia of Wine", Lorenz Books, 1999.

TASTING NOTES
This wine is know for its grassy aromas, crisp citrus and gooseberry flavours. However it can show a wide range of fruit flavours, from sour green fruits, notably gooseberry, green apple, lemon, pear, to exotic notes like melon, passion fruit, mango. Notable are also notes of blackcurrant. In wine from New Zealand vegetable flavours are not uncommon such as asparagus, red pepper, green peas, tomato or even herb. Also look for characteristics of freshly mown grass.

In cool climate areas, look for pungent notes reminiscent of cat's pee and/or male sweat. If you are lucky you will experience a faint acrid smoke note.