When you open a fresh bottle of sauvignon blanc, expect strong verdant aromas like peas, asparagus and cut grass as well as fruity notes like mango, passion fruit and grapefruit. The light-bodied wine is highly acidic and usually contains between 11.5 to 13.5% alcohol by volume (ABV). If you find a sauvignon blanc aged in an oak barrel, savor the creamy, sometimes waxy, scents and note the oily feeling left on the palate. 

It's thought that sauvignon grapes date back as far as 1534, as noted by Francois Rabelai. The writer lived in the Loire valley in France, where the grapes still grow today. During Rabelais' time, these delicate white grapes had another name, which was "fiers." Later they became known for their undomesticated-looking leaves and the name changed to a derivative of the French word, "sauvage," translating to wild. 

The green, herbal flavors of this crisp white wine make it an ideal choice for light main courses like grilled salmon fillets drizzled with pesto. Consider taking a bottle on a romantic picnic to pair with a simple arugula, feta and tomato sandwich on brioche. This light to medium-bodied wine would also make a welcome treat for a cheese tasting featuring soft, bold selections like feta and chevre. 

Cultivated primarily in eight regions, sauvignon blanc grapes can grow almost anywhere. The specific flavors you get from this sweet white wine depend largely on the region from which its grapes grow, and they range from lean to bountiful. For instance, the warm climates of Napa generally produce sauvignons that are incredibly acidic and slightly more robust, while you can expect sweeter more fruity flavors the cooler climates of New Zealand. 

Have a little fun with a blind comparison tasting. Find two wines from different regions with a similar creation story. Cover the wine bottles in foil so you can't tell them apart and try to figure out which is which before the unveiling. 

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