My Sauvignon Blanc Heaven

Let me introduce you to my favorite Sauvignon Blanc, the 2008 Chateau Ste. Michelle Horse Heaven. I bought it on a whim for a party, it was just under $12 at Sam’s Club, noted a “one time buy”. Typically the “one time buy” at Sam’s Club means they negotiated a good deal, bought a lot of it, and that’s all they’ll carry. Once its sold out, its sold out. (this particular one is sold on the winery website for about $16)

Now, as you might know, I’m not typically a fan of Sauvignon Blanc, particularly New Zealand Sauv Blanc-too grassy, too grapefruity, too tart pineappley, and honestly, anything that’s frequently described as having a “cat-piss” aroma is NOT a good thing. That’s my personal preference, and I know New Zealand Sauv Blanc has its following, its just not our thing. However, there have been a few Sauv Blancs I’ve discovered through Gold Medal Wine Club that I’ve liked, so I thought I’d buy it. At the very least, it will be a non-Chardonnay option for my party guests. To my surprise, I not only find it “ok” I actually really like it-and so does Mr. Lush. A LOT. Its fruity, a bit dry with a soft mouthfeel, vs a tart crisp one-much more “white Bordeaux” style, although it is 100% Sauv Blanc. Its really easy drinking, light, a great summer wine that will probably appeal to a large variety of palates.


Of course, upon researching it for this blog post, I find out why its different-21% of it is barrel fermented in older French Oak (most Sauvignon Blancs are totally fermented in stainless steel). Now, this doesn’t mean its “oakey”; French Oak is a mild oak and the use of the older French Oak would just barely soften it, which it has. To date, I have bought every bottle at 3 different Sam’s Club, some for me, and some for Lucy, who also likes it. I also just found out its rated a 90 by Wine Spectator, so don’t just take my word for it-hopefully you can score yourself a bottle!