Sauvignon Blanc Wine between $10 and $25

Although there are subtle differences between the terroir of Menetou-Salon, an up-and-coming region in central Loire, and that of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé to its east, all three regions offer a unique and distinctive take on the expressive Sauvignon Blanc grape variety. In this classic, cool season Loire year, this well-made Assadet Menetou-Salon rings with the freshness and vibrant acidity of the vintage. 

The aromatics in this 2011 Sauvignon are distinctly tropical. Indulging the nose the initial sweet passion fruit then gives way to hints of lime, classic gooseberry, and dried herbs. But it is the palate where this wine embodies all that is Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. The entry onto the palate is smooth and fruit driven, which accelerates through to a midpalate burst of energy from the firm lively acidity with a lingering mouth-watering finish, leaving the discerned wine drinker simply gagging for more. Sauvignon Blanc can be enjoyed on many occasion: either on its own as an aperitif, or accompanied by seafood and salad dishes. Serve lightly chilled.

This 100% Sauvignon Blanc from our Horse Heaven Vineyard delivers aromas of ripe pear and notes of citrus fruit. The wine was fermented in a combination of oak and stainless steel tanks. The stainless steel fermentation preserved the Sauvignon Blanc’s vibrant character and refreshing, crisp quality.

Pear, lime zest, and apricot blossom aromas awaken the senses. The mid-palate expands into a rich and long finish. Melon and lychee are supported by flinty minerality, making this wine a perfect pairing for spicy dishes.

An interesting and complex wine, dry and crisp, and unique among California Sauvignon Blancs. Although there's plenty of citrus fruit, it's marked by other things, such as minerals and herbs, and the sweet, olivaceous taste that the variety's Sauvignon nature contributes in a cool vintage.

A little on the sweet side, but crisp acidity provides a clean whisk of tartness, and the lemon-cream and orange flavors are absolutely delicious.

Tailor-made for spring and summer imbibing, the suavely fruity 2011 Forrest Sauvignon Blanc comes exclusively from winemaker John and Brigid’s family-owned vineyards in Marlborough's premium Wairau River Valley. Founded in 1988, Forrest, along with Cloudy Bay and Goldwater, was among the handful of pioneering producers who put New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc on the map, and it remains one of the country's benchmarks for fresh, unoaked Sauvignon Blanc to this day. Bone dry, it opens with a fresh nose of kiwi, lime, and a hint of passion-fruit, following through with notes of lemon thyme, apple-citrus and mango. Mineral notes from Wairau River’s flinty riverbed terroir rise delicately on the finish. --Ben Giliberti