Savas, Cuvée Eva Blanc, Bordeaux 2020 (13%)

Bordeaux is rarely acclaimed as a source of great-value Sauvignon – because the varietal message in this part of the world is often obscured rather than validated by origin, and because many Bordeaux whites are based on the blends traditional in Pessac-Léognan and Graves. This was the only single-variety Sauvignon among our Value Best in Show wines this year – and its grassy freshness, purity and poise make it a terrific winner. Our judges felt, though, that origin was indeed a part of its appeal – palpable via the soft grain of its faintly oak-infused aromas, and the vinous drive and length of its palate. At this price, don’t look for complexity or concentration, but there is a class to the fruit which is rare at this level and which will provide much drinking pleasure for Sauvignon fans.

‘I want to express the greatness of Bordeaux’s white wines,’ says Savas owner and managing director Cyrille Roche. ‘These wines are of exceptional quality and can equal, and often exceed, the greatest wines in the world.’

He adds: ‘Bordeaux’s image has always been as an elite region. My goal with Savas, to those who are inquisitive, is to show that Bordeaux can provide excitement at all levels.’

Cuvée Eva – which made its debut in the 2010 vintage – is a true Bordeaux representative, which usually combines Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon fruit, sourced from across the region.

‘In the great 2020 vintage, the wine was made 100% from Sauvignon Blanc as the fruit was so aromatic and expressive,’ explains Roche. ‘Most is from the Entre deux Mers region [between the Dordogne and Garonne rivers], with freshness and crisp acidity the hallmark characteristics. But we also used a small portion of fruit from the Left Bank, where the soils are more gravel-based. This added welcome complexity, ensuring a perfectly balanced and exceptional wine.’ The wine is oak aged, with the aim of adding a subtle woody influence.