The Wine Profile

1 Is Sauvignon Blanc typically aged in oak barrels?

A No — most is aged in stainless steel B Always — Sauvignon Blanc requires oak to develop flavour C Only in New Zealand D Only American oak is ever used

2 What is the typical acidity level of Sauvignon Blanc?

A Very low — Sauvignon Blanc is known for its rich, soft creamy texture B Moderate — comparable to a typical oak-aged Chardonnay C Variable — it depends considerably on the harvest timing of the year D High — Sauvignon Blanc is known for its refreshing, crisp acidity

3 What is the typical body level of Sauvignon Blanc?

A Very full-bodied, like a red wine B Light to medium-bodied C Always heavy and oily D Body is impossible to assess in white wines

4 Is Sauvignon Blanc used in any sweet wine styles?

A No — Sauvignon Blanc lacks the sugar potential needed for sweet wine styles B Yes — primarily as a late-harvest dessert wine grape from New Zealand C Yes — it is a component in Sauternes, one of the world's great sweet wines D Yes — chiefly as a fortified wine base grape in southern Spanish regions

5 Should most Sauvignon Blanc be drunk young or cellared for many years?

A Most should be drunk young, within 1-3 years of vintage B Always cellar for at least 10 years C It doesn't matter — age has no effect on Sauvignon Blanc D Only Marlborough versions should be drunk young

6 Sauvignon Blanc is picked early to preserve its aromas. What effect does this have on the wine's alcohol level?

A It stays moderate, typically around 12–13% B It varies wildly, anywhere from 9% to 16% each vintage C It drops below 9%, making the wine off-dry D It becomes high, often above 15%, thanks to early picking