Sauvignon Blanc
August 8 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
TBD
With the cool, wet days of May, we are longing for the warmth of summer and the days where we can sit on the porch in the evening and enjoy a cool, crisp Sauvignon Blanc. So, mark your calendars for August 8th and make plans to join us at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg for a summer evening to explore Sauvignon Blancs from around the world. We are finalizing the wines and have initially selected wines from South America, France, the United States and New Zealand.
The History of Sauvignon Blanc: From Loire Valley Origins to Global Fame
Sauvignon Blanc, one of the world’s most popular white wine grape varieties, boasts a rich and dynamic history spanning centuries and continents. Known for its vibrant acidity, aromatic profile, and refreshing character, Sauvignon Blanc has made a profound impact on the global wine industry. Its journey from a modest French varietal to an international superstar is a story of terroir, tradition, and innovation.
Origins in France
The origins of Sauvignon Blanc trace back to the Loire Valley in western France, with historical records mentioning its cultivation as early as the 18th century. Its name is believed to derive from the French words sauvage (wild) and blanc(white), possibly referencing its vigorous growth and pale-colored grapes.
Initially, Sauvignon Blanc thrived in the Loire Valley appellations of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. Here, the grape found its quintessential expression in the region’s cool climate and limestone-rich soils. The wines were crisp, minerally, and laden with notes of citrus, green apple, and flint — characteristics that became hallmarks of classic Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc.
At around the same time, the grape was also cultivated in Bordeaux, often blended with Sémillon and Muscadelle in both dry white wines and the renowned sweet wines of Sauternes. In Bordeaux, it offered acidity and aromatic lift, balancing the rounder, richer elements of Sémillon.
The New World: A New Chapter
Sauvignon Blanc’s fortunes changed dramatically in the late 20th century with its expansion to the New World — most notably, New Zealand. Although first planted in the country in the 1970s, it was the 1980s that marked its breakthrough. The Marlborough region, on the northeastern tip of the South Island, proved to be an ideal environment, with long sunny days, cool nights, and well-draining soils.
The resulting wines were astonishingly aromatic, with piercing notes of passionfruit, gooseberry, green pepper, and fresh-cut grass — a more expressive and assertive style than their Old World counterparts. Cloudy Bay, a Marlborough winery, was instrumental in putting New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc on the map in the mid-1980s, captivating international wine critics and consumers alike.
Other New World regions soon followed. In California, particularly in Napa Valley, winemakers began to explore a richer style of Sauvignon Blanc. Robert Mondavi famously coined the term “Fumé Blanc” in the late 1960s, aging the wine in oak barrels to give it more weight and complexity while borrowing the name from the French “Pouilly-Fumé” to add a sense of prestige.
Chile, South Africa, and Australia have also become important Sauvignon Blanc producers, each offering unique expressions shaped by their local terroir and winemaking styles.
DNA and Relationships
Modern DNA analysis has shed light on Sauvignon Blanc’s parentage. It is a natural cross between the obscure French variety Savagnin and another ancient grape variety. Interestingly, Sauvignon Blanc is also one of the parents of Cabernet Sauvignon — the result of a cross with Cabernet Franc — further cementing its importance in viticultural history.
Characteristics and Versatility
Sauvignon Blanc’s appeal lies in its distinctive aromatic profile and versatility. It can produce wines that range from dry and zesty to rich and barrel-aged, and even dessert wines in certain regions like Bordeaux. Typical flavor notes include citrus fruits, green apple, gooseberry, bell pepper, and herbs, often with underlying minerality or smokiness depending on origin.
Winemakers may choose to ferment it in stainless steel to preserve its bright aromatics or in oak barrels to add texture and complexity. It also performs well with early bottling, making it a consistent favorite among consumers seeking freshness and vibrancy.
Global Popularity and Future
Today, Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most widely planted white grape varieties in the world, with significant plantings in France, New Zealand, the United States, Chile, and South Africa. Its popularity continues to grow thanks to its refreshing style, food-friendly nature, and the ability to express terroir clearly.
As climate change and consumer tastes evolve, so too does Sauvignon Blanc. Producers are experimenting with different fermentation techniques, blends, and sustainable viticulture practices to adapt to new challenges and maintain the grape’s vibrant appeal.
Conclusion
The history of Sauvignon Blanc is a testament to its adaptability and enduring charm. From the chalky soils of the Loire to the sun-drenched vineyards of Marlborough, it has evolved while staying true to its spirited character. Whether enjoyed in a crisp glass of Sancerre or a tropical-scented New Zealand Sauvignon, this grape continues to captivate wine lovers around the world.
We will be pairing our nine carefully chosen Sauvignon Blancs with three small plates created by the Hilton Chefs. Please inform us of any food sensitivities early by emailing the Treasurer.
Reservation deadline is Tuesday, August 5th. We hope you will join us for this refreshing summer event! You man make reservations via the Shoppe Page on this website.
Members—$95
Patrons—$90
Nonmembers—$115