Branch Out and Diversify

A friend and loyal reader who will undoubtedly recognize themselves, but I don't expect anyone else will, texted me yesterday afternoon wanting to purchase a good bottle of Sauvignon Blanc for not more than $15-18. There was a requirement that it be domestic; I didn't ask why. To quote, California, Oregon, or Washington for domestic Sauvignon Blanc?

Well, again, I don't know why it was important that this particular Sauvignon Blanc be domestic. The text that I received went on to say that the texter could not afford Merry Edwards. For those not in the know, Merry Edwards is an outstanding winery in Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California. Founded by its eponymous original winemaker, a tall woman with a passion for food and then wine originally now in her early 70s. Now, she has handed over the winemaking reins, but keeps close watch on all that goes on. And, if you are fortunate enough to land a bottle of their Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir, or even their Chardonnay, be sure to savor it. Without going to truly ridiculous price points, it will be a wonderful experience.

In any event, as I though about how to answer this question, it occurred to me that Sauvignon Blanc is largely grown in warmer climates, Marlborough, New Zealand being the striking exception and thus resulting the strong expression of methoxypyrazine (puyrazines for short) that give the green and heavily citrusy flavors. So, despite the question, Oregon is out. Oregon, except for small microclimates in the southern part of the state just doesn't have the climate for Sauvignon Blanc. And, while there is some excellent Sauvignon Blanc coming out of Washington, it's certainly more consistent in California.

But, I still don't know why the domestic requirement was attached. For example, and while you might not think of it as a haven for Sauvignon Blanc, spending $15 for a Chilean bottle would be a lot and those in that price range would be every bit as good as all but the best coming out of California. They migh be more difficult to find, but one could say the same about Rueda (Spain) as well as Moldova, Adelaide Hills (Australia), or Breede River Valley (South Africa). Each will tend to have its own characteristics, but none will be without the striking acidity for which Sauvignon Blanc is known that makes ever so food-friendly.

So, my message to you is please don't just stick with what you know. Live a little. Try something different. It doesn't mean you need to try all the weird wines I have suggested over the last year, but do consider, for example, your favorite grapes, but from a different geography or conversely, unusual grapes from one of your favorite geographies.

Spend less that way and thank me later.