Dark Horse Sauvignon Blanc embodies the philosophy of its creator, Beth Liston, who aimed to break the conventions of winemaking by crafting wines that deliver exceptional flavour at an affordable price. The brand, based in California’s Central Valley, has earned a reputation for producing bold, innovative wines that consistently impress critics and wine enthusiasts alike.
This Sauvignon Blanc, with its zesty and vibrant character, is no exception. The grapes are sourced from select vineyards known for their superior fruit, benefiting from the warm Californian climate, which helps develop ripe, intense flavours while maintaining bright acidity. The careful winemaking process involves cold fermentation to retain the wine’s crisp, fresh profile and to highlight its fruity, aromatic character.
Tasting Notes:
Appearance: Pale straw with a golden tint, giving it a bright and inviting look.
Aroma: A refreshing bouquet of citrus fruits, predominantly grapefruit and lime, with undertones of tropical pineapple and passionfruit. Subtle hints of green apple and freshly cut grass add complexity.
Flavour: On the palate, Dark Horse Sauvignon Blanc bursts with juicy citrus flavours, including zesty lemon and tangy lime. Tropical notes of pineapple and melon provide a balanced sweetness, complemented by a crisp minerality that enhances its freshness. The wine’s bright acidity makes it incredibly refreshing and perfect for warm days.
Mouthfeel: Light and crisp, with a smooth, clean finish. The wine’s vibrant acidity ensures it finishes bright and refreshing, making it a perfect accompaniment to food or as a standalone glass.
Producer History:
Dark Horse Wines was established with the goal of delivering high-quality wines that are accessible to all. Winemaker Beth Liston, a bold innovator in the industry, is known for her unconventional methods and her passion for creating wines that surprise and delight. Dark Horse has garnered widespread acclaim for its focus on flavour and its ability to produce wines that consistently offer great value.
California’s Central Valley, where the grapes for Dark Horse wines are grown, is an ideal region for producing Sauvignon Blanc. The warm days and cool nights create the perfect conditions for growing grapes with intense fruit flavours while preserving their natural acidity. The winemaking team at Dark Horse carefully selects grapes from top vineyards to ensure the highest quality in every bottle.
Food Pairings:
Seafood: This crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with grilled fish, shrimp, or oysters. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of seafood, making it an excellent match for light, citrus-infused dishes.
Salads: Ideal for pairing with fresh, green salads or those with a citrus dressing. The wine’s zesty citrus notes and refreshing character complement the vibrant flavours of the vegetables and fruits.
Goat Cheese: Try this Sauvignon Blanc with soft, tangy goat cheese. The wine’s acidity balances the creaminess of the cheese, making for a delightful contrast in texture and flavour.
Light Pastas: Pair with pasta dishes that feature lemon-based sauces or light olive oil dressings. Its fresh acidity will enhance the flavours of the dish without overwhelming them.
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