While Bordeaux does get most of it’s attention for it’s Premier Cru reds, white Bordeaux has a punchy nature all of its own.  Just like how red Bordeaux utilizes blending to get depth, many white Bordeauxs do the same.  While most people are familiar with Sauvignon Blanc, the partner grape is Semillon is more of an unknown.  Broad and clean, Semillon provides a weight and lift for the tart, bright, tight nature Sauvignon Blanc can impart.

If however, you like Sauvignon Blanc on its own, and are tired of the same old New Zealand based quaffs, then Sauvignon de Seguin might be worth a try to see where Sauvignon Blanc started.

Sight:  Pale gold

Smell:  Gooseberries, kiwi, pear, and hints of green pepper all jump up.  Touches of white grape, peach, and lychee get involved with hints of white pepper.  The nose actually has a good amount of depth.

Sip:  Bright as bright gets,  it’s packed with gooseberry and lime.  Touches of ginger, apples, green herbs, and pepper are all present.

Savor:  The ending pulls in more herbs, lime zest, and gooseberries all move in with bits of jasmine and ginger.   The finish is prolonged but has good character.

Sauvignon de Seguin 2014 has great Sauvignon Blanc character at a good price point.  The herby notes are well complimented by the bright lime and gooseberry, and the brightness makes it friendly for food, or just as a refreshing wine.  At $7 a bottle, the value is also pretty good for a Sauvignon Blanc.  Sauvignon de Seguin might be light on Semillon, but it has Sauvignon character in spades.

Verdict:  Gooseberry, Lime, Ginger, Bright
Rating: 87
Price: $7
Bordeaux, France