I know that it’s not all that cool, but I really love Sauvignon Blanc. Here are two good ones: an oaked Bordeaux example (which is actually a blend with Semillon and a touch of Muscadelle), and a slightly atypical Marlborough Sauvignon.
Clos Floridene 2012 Graves, Bordeaux, France
13% alcohol. A blend of half Sauvignon Blanc with Semillon and a dash of Muscadelle. Beautifully aromatic nose: grapefruit, passionfruit, citrus and herbs. The palate is fresh and taut with subtle oak as well as vivid citrus and pear fruit, and a hint of peachy richness. A fabulous expression of Sauvignon, bright but with some richness. 92/100 (Available in the UK from the Coop, £16.99)
Walnut Block Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2013 Marlborough, New Zealand
13% alcohol. From an organic vineyard in Rapaura, planted in 1996. Hand-picked grapes. 30% is fermented in old barrels with wild yeast, while the rest is in stainless steel. Very tight, fresh and mineral, with steely citrus and herb aromatics leading to a focused, lively palate showing high acidity and a lemony, mineral core. Tight and youthful with potential for development. 90/100 (Available in the UK from Vintage Roots)
You beat me to writing-up the Clos Floridene 2012! It’s on my ‘to-do’ list for this week. Pretty similar notes and same score though 🙂 I thought the 2008 walnut block Pinot noir was pretty good too!
I love both styles of SB. The totality of the white vines are 56 % Sémillon, 43 % Sauvignon and 1 % Muscadelle, so is the “grand vin” actually reflective of this?
BTW I think you have an extra i in the name of Clos Floridene
Frankie, you are correct on both counts. Thanks. Post now updated.
Clos Floridene has been remarkable graves blanc for many years. If you haven’t seen it more recently the label has been modernised and the bottle is taller.
Lovers of the style should know that the price has been reduced to £14.99 in some Co-Op stores, where 2011 is the pedominant vintage on offer.
I have not compared the ’11 to the ’12 though. The property is near the Barsac border, and I thought the 2010 vintage for white graves was lovely.
Past vintages have kept quite well.