Sipping South African Sauvignon Blanc

By Jamie Knee

As promised, for the next several weeks I will be showcasing South African Wines from House of Henkel. Today I’m sipping their “Gretchen” South African Sauvignon Blanc.

Elegant wine bottle featuring a stylish woman in a floral hat on the label.

House of Henkel “Gretchen” Sauvignon Blanc. MSRP $22.95

South Africa’s Western Cape

South Africa’s Western Cape produces some of the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc. The region’s cool, coastal climate is ideal for growing Sauvignon Blanc grapes that result in wines with bright acidity and complex, layered flavors. Sauvignon Blanc from South Africa tends to be more herbaceous and savory, with a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other regions in the world.

Close-up of fresh green grapes hanging on the vine.

Sauvignon Blanc Grapes

The House of Henkel Gretchen Sauvignon Blanc is made from carefully selected grapes grown in cool, coastal vineyards, resulting in a wine that is bursting with bright, citrusy flavors. On the nose you get fresh cut grass, grapefruit and juicy passion fruit. As you swirl on the palate those flavors carry over, with added zesty orange blossom flavors.

A bottle of white wine next to a colorful salad bowl with avocado and chickpeas.

Sauvignon Blanc and Veggie Rice Bowl

In honor of Earth Month, I’m experimenting with more veggie based dishes this month. This delicious wine is a perfect complement to many vegetarian dishes, particularly those that feature fresh veggies and rice. The wine’s bright acidity and zesty flavors perfectly balance the earthiness of vegetables like edamame, onions, and bell peppers. It also pairs beautifully with dishes that feature a variety of herbs, such as basil, parsley, and cilantro, as the wine’s vibrant flavors highlight the freshness of the herbs. Its citrusy flavors complement the nutty, complex flavors of rice, whether it’s served as a simple side dish or as the base of a more complex bowl.

This wine is a bouquet of fresh spring flavors in a bottle.