While we don’t really need an excuse to break out a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, International Sauvignon Blanc Day on May 2nd seems like a day to celebrate. In honour of this esteemed wine, we’ve tried a few different options, all coming in at £10 or less per bottle, so get that wine rack stocked – summer and BBQ season are on the horizon.
Calvet Réserve Sauvignon Blanc 2023
£10
This Réserve Sauvignon Blanc from Calvet is a full-bodied wine, with a slightly herbal note among the abundant white fruits.
On the nose, the fresh, bright aroma carries light floral notes and the sweetness of passion fruit with just a touch of citrus to greet you. On the palate, those fruits and florals continue, with fresh peaches and a little orange citrus coming through.
The fresh flavours are well-balanced throughout, leading you to a long, fruity finish. Perfect for a fish dish, or simply sipping in the early summer sunshine.
La Belle Angèle Sauvignon Blanc 2023
£9
La Belle Angèle Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent option to pair with cheese or fish, or enjoy chilled in the garden with friends.
The grapes are sourced from different vineyards, adding complexity to the wine. It’s both crisp and refreshing, with hints of lively zest.
On the nose, there are notes of gooseberry and blackcurrant with just a little citrus to make the mouth water. On the palate, apples join the fruity throng, adding to the fresh crisp notes to keep you salivating. The finish is long and crisp with a hint of acidity, pulling you back in for another sip.
Calvet Prestige Bordeaux White Sauvignon Fumé 2023
£8
If you prefer your Sauvignon Blanc a little drier, this offering from Calvet might be just what you’re looking for.
Golden in colour, it mingles the acidity of citrus with the fruitiness of lemons and the sweetness of peaches.
On the nose, those citrus tangs are accompanied by white flowers and softened by gentle vanilla. On the palate, crisp apples and peaches blend seamlessly with the citrus and just a touch of oak, creating a balanced, fresh mouthful. This leads to a long finish that lingers just a little on the tongue.
A nice wine to accompany chicken or fish, or great with a summer BBQ, and a great option to celebrate International Sauvignon Blanc Day.
JP Chenet Sauvignon Blanc 2023
£7
For the budget-conscious or the savvy shopper, this offering from JP Chenet is a highly drinkable bottle. It’s as mellow in colour as it is in flavour, with a delicate bouquet that will do nothing to offend.
On the nose, you’ll find hints of white flowers and citrus, perhaps a little peach, too. On the palate, there is more citrus, with sweet lemon and a little grapefruit joining the apple notes that are lingering in the background. The long finish has a little acidity to complement the fruit notes.
It’s a well-balanced glassful but could be too subtle for some.
Calvet Cuvée du Cap Sauvignon Blanc 2023
£9
For something with a bit more zing, opt for this Cuvée du Cap Sauvignon Blanc from Calvet. The pale yet bright colour will draw you in, and the crisp, dry flavours will keep you sipping.
On the nose, you’ll find plenty of citrus zest with grapefruit and lime, backed by a touch of wooded spice. On the palate, peaches and juicy limes bring the summer to life, with a slight tartness to keep things lively. The finish is long and fruity, with a lingering citrus flavour that plays on the tongue.
A fabulous summer all-rounder that would work well as an aperitif, with a simple salad, or white meats.
