Tonight, we are tasting two Sauvignon Blancs.

My favorite Sauvignon Blancs are from Sancerre, part of the Loire Valley in France. Bright but with a lot of minerality.

Some people prefer the bright acidic Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand.

We purchased two wines, a New Zealand wine from Trader Joe’s for $10, and a Napa Valley wine Costco for $28.

Tonight, we are tasting:

1. 2024 Kono Sauvignon Blanc. I purchased the wine from Trader Joe’s for $10. It comes from Marlborough, New Zealand and received a 90 rating from the Wine Enthusiast. It has 13% alcohol. They say passionfruit, lime and grassy. Dry and zippy. The winery says aromas of citrus, grapefruit, passionfruit, and lemongrass. Taste of ripe lemon and lime, green apple, pineapple. Fresh and bright acidity. Pairs with seafood, scallops, mussels, oysters, white fish, salad, and vegetable dishes. Goat cheese. https://www.konowines.co.nz/
2. 2023 Beaulieu Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc. This comes from the Rutherford region of Napa Valley. I purchased the wine from Costco for $28. The winery says aromas of meyer lemon, white peach, orange blossom, and bright pineapple, along subtle oak notes of brioche toast and marzipan. Flavors of ripe citrus fruits. Round and luscious, and very well balanced. Crisp and lively. Pairs with charcuterie platter, mixed salads, mixed salads, and lighter fish or chicken dishes.Wine Enthusiast rated this wine a 92. The wine spends 5 months in new French oak to add structure. https://www.bvwines.com/

We both enjoyed the Kono. I scored a 4 and Denise a 3. The Beaulieu was not our favorite. I scored it a 3 and Denise a 2. I would definitely recommend the Kono. This wine was bright, but well balanced and packed with flavor.

Next week, we are jumping into Merlot.