California may be renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignons, but the lesser-known Sauvignon Blanc is starting to make its mark in the Golden State. Initially planted in the Livermore Valley during the 19th century, Sauvignon Blanc has now become the fourth most popular white grape variety in California. According to the Wine Institute, California producers saw a significant increase in Sauvignon Blanc production in 2023, with 160,834 tons crushed, marking the highest yield since 1990. The Silicon Valley Bank’s State of the U.S. Wine Industry Report also highlighted a 1.5% growth in Sauvignon Blanc, making it the only variety to experience such positive development in recent years.
Top Picks for International Sauvignon Blanc Day
As wine enthusiasts celebrate International Sauvignon Blanc Day, it’s essential to explore some of the top-notch offerings from California wineries. Here are a few standout bottles that are sure to delight your palate:
Arkenstone Estate Reserve 2017, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley
The Arkenstone Estate Reserve 2017 is a wine that demands attention, from its unique wax seal to its deep, rich flavors of honeyed yellow fruits and savory herbal undertones. While it may require some effort to open, the reward is a wine that is wild, exotic, and incredibly intriguing.
Aged for 11 months in French oak, the Brandlin from Mount Veeder offers a lean profile with generous fruit notes that pair exceptionally well with smoked shrimp. This sophisticated wine delivers a tropical fruit profile that is both pleasing and nuanced, embodying a delightful New World vibe with each sip.
The Cliff Lede 2022 offers a lively blend of zesty Sauvignon Blanc markers with a touch of Sémillon for added roundness. Sourced from various premier vineyards in Napa Valley, this wine strikes a perfect balance between Old and New World characteristics, delivering freshness, depth, and a hint of floral tropical fruit components.
Fiddlehead Cellars La Presa Vineyard 2022, Los Olivos District
From the Santa Barbara region, the Fiddlehead Cellars La Presa Vineyard 2022 is a warm and nutty Sauvignon Blanc with tropical notes, juicy fruits, and a tangy zest that keeps the palate refreshed. This creamy wine exudes a melon-inflected profile that is both intriguing and vibrant.
Groth Vineyards & Winery 2022, Oakville, Napa Valley
Crafted from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, the Groth Vineyards & Winery 2022 offers a citrus-forward experience with hints of pink grapefruit, clementines, and Meyer lemon. This estate-bottled wine combines stone fruit flavors with floral undertones and a touch of earthy Celtic salt, creating a harmonious and well-rounded drinking experience.
As the popularity of California Sauvignon Blanc continues to rise, wine enthusiasts have an array of exceptional options to explore. From bold and opulent offerings to tropical-inflected New World styles, California wineries are showcasing the versatility and quality of their Sauvignon Blanc wines. Whether you prefer lean and sophisticated profiles or creamy and nutty textures, there is a California Sauvignon Blanc waiting to please your palate on International Sauvignon Blanc Day. Cheers to discovering your new favorite bottle from the Golden State!