Monday, February 28, 2011

The Virtues of Simple Perfection: Cep Sauvignon Blanc

Simplicity is underrated. Perfection is overrated. But what do you do when you find a wine that is quite simply perfect? Well, you enjoy it first. Then, if you're me, you write about it here and hope that you can still get your hands on some later.

Some readers will find it surprising that the wine that I'm touting is a Sauvignon Blanc. One person I know recently described Sauvignon Blanc as "boring," and while I couldn't disagree more I think I understand why some she might feel this way. There are a lot of generically "citrusy" Sauvignon Blancs out there that, though refreshing, aren't necessarily going to make you run out and buy more. I think this Sauvignon Blanc is different, though. And even though you might pay a smidge over $20 as I did, I think you will still consider it excellent QPR.

The 2009 Cep Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc Hopkins Ranch ($20.99 in my local independent grocery store; available in the market for $15-$20) is a wonderful example of Sauvignon Blanc. Instead of a generically "citrusy" mouthful, I detected pure notes of Meyer Lemon in the aromas and flavors. There was a clean note of mint, as well, and some stoniness that added depth and breadth to the wine. It was almost piercing in its intensity, but never overwhelming or assertive, with lots of focus to the flavors and a long, juicy aftertaste. Think of pairing this wine with Asian food that uses citrus elements like orange peel or lemon, a roast chicken, an early spring salad topped with rounds of goat cheese, or seafood.

This stylish, well-made, and satisfying wine was brought to you by the same people who own and operate Peay Vineyards, and are winemakers renowned and respected for their ability to select great fruit and craft great wines from that fruit. Cep is their second label--which means that fruit that doesn't quite make the cut of their high-end wines is bottled under a different name--and was for a time a well-kept secret. Now the secret it out, and it gives more people a chance to taste their winemaking efforts. Cep also bottles a superb rosé and Pinot Noir, so keep your eyes out for these, too.

5 comments:

Unknown said...

Just finished your wonderful, addictive novel, and am now going to run out & try this wine! I think your blog may prove to be just as addictive! I've enjoyed wines from Peay vineyards and was unaware they had another label - thanks for the information.

Nessa said...

I just finished your novel also and loved it. Can't wait for the next installment.

I adore Root: 1 Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile

http://www.root1wine.com/#cabernetSauvignon

But I've been looking for something new I can enjoy just as much. I'll be back to try some of your suggestions.

Andrea Middleton said...

Meyer lemon, mint, stone and a long finish? I'm there!

BUDOKAN said...

We've seen your wine blog and would like to invite you to write a post about Argentine Torrontes and participate in our Blogger of the Month contest. You will have the chance to win a free trip to Argentina! Here is a link for more infohttp://www.winesofargentina.org/en/bloggerofthemonth
Looking forward to reading your blog post!
Thanks!
Wines of Argentina team

The Winos' said...

We not very familiar with Sauvignon Blanc, but I promise it will be on our to-do list after this post!

Love your blog!

www.dontcallmeawino.com