In the Vineyard
Sauvignon Blanc is a green-skinned grape variety that originates from the Bordeaux region of France. The grape most likely gets its name from the French words sauvage (“wild”) and blanc (“white”) due to its early origins as an indigenous grape in South West France. Sauvignon blanc is planted in many of the world’s wine regions, producing a crisp, dry, and refreshing white varietal wine.
Description of the vine
LEAVES
Small to medium, almost round, downy underside, slightly convex, broad, blunt teeth; petioles light rose pink
SHOOT TIPS
Lightly felty, rose colour
BUNCHES
Medium small, nearly cylindrical, compact with a very short, tough peduncle
BERRIES
Yellow-greenish, small to medium, oval with a soft, thin skin
Cultivation characteristics
SOILS
Medium potential
CLIMATE
Cool
SUSCEPTIBILITY
Sensitive to botrytis, medium sensitivity to oidium and downy mildew. Early budder, sensitive to frost.
RIPENING
Ripening period Mid-February.