Always among the top sauvignon blancs coming from the North Fork, Macari Vineyards 2012 “Katherine’s Field” Sauvignon Blanc ($23) is an early favorite from the 2012 batch just hitting shelves now — and I dare say the best since Kelly Urbanik took over as winemaker.
Aromas of grapefruit, sweet lime, green apple and honeydew show ripeness and nary a scent of grass or other ‘greenness.’
Medium-to-fuller bodied but well balanced with citrusy, juicy acidity, the palate offer more lime and grapefruit flavors backed by green apple and a gently glycerin mouthfeel. Finishing lively and focused with a squeeze of grapefruit, it’s easy to imagine opening this with a platter of just-shucked oysters or a lobster roll. Those of us with shellfish allergies will have to enjoy it on its own, or with grilled chicken that can benefit from a beam of citrus to balance all of the garlic in the marinade.
This was the rare white wine that improved on day two open in my fridge. I think that bodes well for mid-summer sipping.
Producer: Macari Vineyards
AVA: North Fork of Long Island
ABV: 12.6%
Price: $23*
