What’s the difference between Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc wine?

Answered by Ian Ramirez

The difference between Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc lies in the type of grape used and the resulting wine produced. While both wines share the same parent grape, Cabernet Franc, they are made from different varieties of the grape, resulting in distinct characteristics and flavors.

Sauvignon Blanc is a grape that is known for producing crisp, refreshing wines with high acidity and vibrant flavors. It is typically grown in cooler climate regions, such as parts of New Zealand, California, and France. The grapes are harvested and then fermented to produce a white wine that is light in color, ranging from pale yellow to greenish hues.

The flavor profile of Sauvignon Blanc wine can vary depending on the region and winemaking techniques used. In general, Sauvignon Blanc wines are known for their citrusy and tropical fruit flavors, such as grapefruit, lime, melon, and passion fruit. They can also exhibit herbaceous notes, such as grass, bell pepper, and gooseberry. The high acidity of Sauvignon Blanc wines gives them a crisp and refreshing character.

On the other hand, Cabernet Sauvignon is a grape that is known for producing full-bodied, bold red wines. It is one of the most widely planted red grape varieties in the world and is grown in various wine regions, including Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Australia. The grapes are harvested and fermented with the skins to extract the deep colors and tannins, resulting in a red wine that is rich in flavor and structure.

Cabernet Sauvignon wines are characterized by their dark red color, robust tannins, and complex flavors. They often display notes of blackcurrant, black cherry, cedar, tobacco, and vanilla. These wines are typically aged in oak to enhance their flavors and add additional layers of complexity.

The difference between Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc wine lies in the grape variety used and the resulting wine style. Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine grape that produces crisp and refreshing white wines with citrus and tropical fruit flavors, while Cabernet Sauvignon is a red wine grape that produces full-bodied, bold red wines with dark fruit and complex flavors.