What are the characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc wine?
Sauvignon Blanc is a dry, crisp white wine with high acidity, a medium-light body and no tannins. Typical flavors are citrus, grapefruit, gooseberry, passion fruit and white peach, with grassy or herbal notes. It usually runs 11.5 to 13.5 percent ABV and is served chilled, about 45 to 55 degrees F.
Free download
Home Bar Storage Chart (PDF): How long liqueurs, spirits, wine and mixers last, opened and unopened. 25 rows, each with its source.
Thank you
Your chart is ready
We use your email only for this download.Also free:
Milk and Dairy Storage Chart (PDF)Juice, Soda and Water Storage Chart (PDF)Coffee, Tea and Hot Drinks Storage Chart (PDF)Drink Strength, Calories and Units Cheat Sheet (PDF)Want the full pack? About 10 printable sheets: a larger chart for each drink type, a “has it gone off?” checklist, date labels, a party planner and an inventory sheet.
In this article
What does Sauvignon Blanc taste like?
Sauvignon Blanc is known for bright acidity and fresh, often green aromas. Wine Folly lists gooseberry, honeydew, grapefruit, white peach and passion fruit, with freshly cut grass, peas and asparagus on the nose.
Quick profile
| Feature | Typical |
|---|---|
| Style | Usually dry |
| Body | Medium-light |
| Acidity | High |
| Tannins | None |
| ABV | 11.5 to 13.5% |
| Serve at | 45 to 55 degrees F (7 to 12 degrees C) |
| Decanting | Not needed |
Where it is grown
- Loire Valley, France: a cool climate that gives a fruity, tart wine with lively acidity.
- Bordeaux, France: also makes a richer, oak-aged style.
- Marlborough, New Zealand: known for citrus-focused, vibrant wines.
- Chile: Casablanca, Leyda and parts of Aconcagua.
- South Africa, Australia, California, Washington and others.
Why do some taste more grassy?
The green, herbal aromas come from compounds called methoxypyrazines, according to Wine Folly. Styles differ by region and producer, so check the label.
What to eat with it
Wine Folly suggests herb-driven dishes: chicken, fish, shellfish and smoked salmon, feta, chevre and warm goat cheese, asparagus and green peas, herb sauces, and Thai and Vietnamese dishes.
How long does it keep?
Wine Folly suggests cellaring for about 3 to 5 years. Most bottles are meant to be drunk young and fresh, so check the vintage and producer.
How to choose a bottle
- Want tart and lively: look to the Loire.
- Want citrus-focused and vibrant: try Marlborough.
- Read the label for ABV and region; styles vary by producer.
This page is general guidance. Drink responsibly.
People also ask
Is Sauvignon Blanc sweet or dry?
Usually dry, with high acidity. Some producers make off-dry or sweet wines, so check the label.
What is the alcohol content of Sauvignon Blanc?
Typically about 11.5 to 13.5 percent ABV, according to Wine Folly; check the bottle for the exact number.
How should Sauvignon Blanc be served?
Chilled, about 45 to 55 degrees F (7 to 12 degrees C), in a white wine glass, with no decanting needed.
Sources
About · How we verify this · Editorial policy · Corrections
What would help you most next?
One tap. Anonymous. It helps us decide what to build.
Thank you. The free charts above are yours to keep.
