2010 Brancott Sauvignon Blanc

2010 Brancott Sauvignon Blanc

This Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand displays what is typical of the region for this varietal – burst of bright fruit with a tangy finish.

I first sampled this Brancott Estate wine when it was really cold and some of its aromas and flavors were masked.  As it warmed up a bit, the nose was bright pink grapefruit.  For those wine drinkers who can’t easily identify aromas displayed by certain wines, the grapefruit is prominent and easy to pinpoint on this Sauvignon Blanc.  The citrus notes continue in the mouth with lemon and lime flavors that finish with zippy acidity.

Great summer white at a very affordable price point.

Around $12.

2009 Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc

2009 Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc

This affordable New Zealand wine is bigger and bolder than I anticipated.  On the nose, it’s ripe, caramelized ruby grapefruit.  The palate offers fresh-cut grass, Meyer lemon, juicy peach and passion fruit with spicy notes on the finish.  Nice Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc at a great price point.

90 Points Wine Spectator.

Around $11.

2008 Kim Crawford Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

2008 Kim Crawford Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

2008 Kim Crawford Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

I’ve purchased this Kim Crawford wine several times for casual dinners where I didn’t want to spend a ton of money but still wanted to enjoy a decent glass of wine. I wasn’t disappointed again last night when I uncorked, um, unscrewed, another bottle.

We paired this bottle with Thai food and found that it cut through the heat of the dishes well.  I typically buy Rieslings to pair with spicy food, but this Sauvignon Blanc stood up to the heat and provided a refreshing pale green mouthful of grassy lime.  I agree with the following review:

“Fragrant and complex, with a refreshing burst of lime, guava, grapefruit and grass flavors,” wrote Wine Spectator, awarding it 91 points. “Wet stone, passion fruit and oyster shell accents add interest, with bright acidity highlighting the vivid finish. Another outstanding Sauvignon from a perennial success. Drink now.”

For about $14 a bottle, this is a solid buy.  Pairs well with spicy foods, would be great with a light fish or with chicken, and can be found at most wine stores across the country.

Pairings: Fish, seafood, especially seared scallops

Style: White Wine

Grape Type(s): Sauvignon Blanc

Region: Marlborough, New Zealand

Price: $14