Jamie Goode

Our expert toasts the last days of summer in a selection of classic sauvignons

As we approach the end of summer, it is time to revisit a superstar white grape variety. Sauvignon blanc has a great talent for making fresh, fruity, unoaked wines with citrus, passionfruit and pear notes. It also has a green character which, depending on the region, can be anything from a hint to full-blown green pepper, cut grass, tomato leaf and nettles.

It all helps to make sauvignon so distinctive, though, so here are seven exceptional bottles.

Errazuriz Estate Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2021, Aconcagua, Chile, £10, Morrisons, 13% alcohol

From cool vineyards near the Pacific Ocean, this combines pineapple and passionfruit richness with lively citrussy acid and a hint of green.

Oxford Landing Sauvignon Blanc 2021, South Australia, £6.75, Asda, 10.5% alcohol

This is zesty, grassy and green with a fabulous tomato leaf and green pepper character backing up the zippy citrus fruit. Altogether, a very appealing mouthful.

Cape Mentelle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2021, Margaret River, Australia, £17, Sainsbury’s, 12.5% alcohol

A classic from Margaret River, this aromatic offering is fresh and floral with distinct elderflower and spicy crystalline citrus fruit flavours. A real treat, in fact.

Blind River Sauvignon Blanc 2021, Awatere, Marlborough, New Zealand, £10.99, Waitrose, 13% alcohol

Full of grapefruit and gooseberry flavours. It has some grip, so the citrus and green notes work well.

Leyda Single Vineyard Garuma Sauvignon Blanc 2021, Leyda, Chile, £12, Tesco,13% alcohol

An interesting tipple with green pepper and tomato leaf notes, intense lime and quince flavours, a pithy bite and a melony richness.

Yealands Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2021, Marlborough, New Zealand, £11, M&S, 12.5% alcohol

Tomato leaf and passionfruit aromatics make for a fresh, intense feel in the mouth.

Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc 2021, Marlborough, New Zealand, £16.50, The Wine Society, 13.5% alcohol

An excellent wine that shows a balance of tropical notes and brighter citrus and green characters. Well worth the slight premium over its peers.