Woodbridge Sauvignon Blanc
Winery: Woodbridge Winery
Style: Dry White
Year: 2002
Price Range: $9-14
Rating: 9/10

This has been my "house" wine for the past 5 years. Unlike many expensive Sauvignon Blancs which tend towards "steely" notes (steely is a term often associated with this type of wine...what does it mean?...Uh...well, kind of mineral-like or metallic). Tough to describe until you've compared an expensive California Sauvignon Blanc to a California Chardonnay. Then you'll understand steely. Unlike others, this sauv is slightly fruity, crisp and somewhat dry without the steel. It's got undertones of melon. Kind of like a nice Chardonnay without the oakiness. It's been pretty consistent from year to year, although last year's was a tiny bit better. It's got a slight bit of tinglyness on the palate and is great with seafood, Chinese food, Thai food, sushi, salads, crab, and lobster. Especially well chilled on summer evenings. Don't confuse the Robert Mondavi name on the label with CK Mondavi who also makes a (nasty) Sauvignon Blanc. Same family, but Robert is the good guy...CK is the hack. Prices range from $8.99 (a great buy) to $13.99. Typically $11.99 a mag.

~ bubba