Sauvignon Blanc and Fume Blanc are both popular white wines that are made from the same grape variety, Sauvignon Blanc. However, there is a key difference between the two in terms of how they are aged and the resulting flavor profile.
Sauvignon Blanc is typically aged in stainless steel vats after fermentation. This aging process helps to preserve the fresh and vibrant characteristics of the wine. Stainless steel vats do not impart any flavors to the wine, allowing the natural flavors of the grape to shine through. The result is a crisp and refreshing wine with lively acidity and flavors of citrus, tropical fruits, and sometimes herbaceous notes such as grass or bell pepper.
On the other hand, Fume Blanc is a style of Sauvignon Blanc that is aged in oak barrels after fermentation. The term “Fume Blanc” was popularized by Robert Mondavi in the 1960s as a way to differentiate his oak-aged Sauvignon Blanc from the more traditional stainless steel-aged style. The oak aging process adds a layer of complexity to the wine, imparting flavors of vanilla, spice, and sometimes a creamy texture. The oak also softens the acidity of the wine, resulting in a smoother and rounder mouthfeel.
The choice to age Sauvignon Blanc in oak barrels as Fume Blanc is a winemaker's preference and can vary depending on the desired style of the wine. Some winemakers may choose to use new oak barrels, which can lend more pronounced oak flavors and aromas, while others may opt for older barrels that have been used multiple times and have less impact on the wine.
In terms of taste, Sauvignon Blanc tends to be more fruit-forward and zesty, with bright acidity and a crisp finish. Fume Blanc, on the other hand, often exhibits more complex flavors and a fuller body due to the oak aging, with a smoother and richer mouthfeel.
It is important to note that not all Sauvignon Blanc wines are labeled as Fume Blanc. Fume Blanc is typically used to indicate a specific style of Sauvignon Blanc that has undergone oak aging, while Sauvignon Blanc can refer to both stainless steel-aged and oak-aged versions of the wine.
The primary difference between Sauvignon Blanc and Fume Blanc lies in the aging process and resulting flavor profile. Sauvignon Blanc is typically aged in stainless steel vats, resulting in a crisp and refreshing wine with vibrant fruit flavors. Fume Blanc, on the other hand, undergoes oak aging, adding complexity, richness, and a smoother mouthfeel to the wine. Both styles have their own unique characteristics and can be enjoyed depending on personal preference and the desired wine experience.