I know that I sound like a broken record, but the more North Fork sauvignon blanc that I taste, the more I’m convinced that wineries should (will?) rip out some of their endless chardonnay plantings and plant more sauvignon blanc.
These are the most exciting varietal white wines being made here, bar none.
Macari Vineyards, a winery in Mattituck that somehow remains just off of many peoples’ radar, has made deliciously fresh sauvignon for many years, and their 2007 vintage may be the best yet.
It pours an extremely pale greenish-yellow in the glass and offers intense aromas of grapefruit, lemon and lime zest with understated hints of just-cut grass and crushed Thai basil leaves.
The palate is mouthwatering crisp and similarly citrusy, with fresh grapefruit and sweet lime flavors accented by a seawater minerality and more of that grassy-herbal character — but not too much.
The balance between flavor, texture and lively acidity is impressive and the finish lingers nicely. If you want to discuss this wine in terms of global style, I’d say that it lives somewhere between Sancerre and New Zealand.
Or you could just say that it’s Long Island, which is what I prefer. At some point, we need to start talking about Long Island style instead of always comparing wines with other regions. What’s wrong with being unique?
Grape(s): 100% sauvignon blanc
Producer: Macari Vineyards
AVA: North Fork of Long Island
Price: $22
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 | Very good-to-Delicious)