One of the top-selling grape varieties in the UK – no wonder given its lively, fresh and aromatic style.

We drank 63 million bottles of gooseberry and tropical fruit laden New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc in 2016, a style we just can’t get enough of. In the Loire valley, where the grape originates, the wine style is more restrained but still vibrant – aromas of cut grass and lemon with mineral freshness.

If you are looking for a great value for money Sauvignon, I would start by looking at South Africa and South America. Where the ever popular variety has been given a new lease of life. Fancy something higher end? Sancerre is where the style thrives. Creating flinty, mineral and beautifully green styles of Sauvignon. Or, focus on the top end New Zealand producers such as our very own Wairau River Wines whose Reserve Sauvignon 2016 won Platinum at the 2017 Decanter World Wine Awards.

Common Characteristics

Colour: White

Style: Dry

Body style: Medium Bodied

Alcohol content: Medium

Food Pairing: White meat and salad dishes. Loire Valley Sauvignon goes particularly well with a light goats cheese.