Sauvignon Blanc is one of the world’s noble white grapes. From Sancerre to Bordeaux blanc all the way to New Zealand, some of the most talented winemakers are crafting wines that are minerally, textured, and aromatically intriguing. But Sauvignon Blanc fatigue is real, especially when you factor in the price of collectible bottles from top producers like Dagueneau or Vatan ($$$), or the ubiquity of mass-produced bottles from NZ. Luckily, we have just the wine to reinvigorate or even inspire a love for this exceptional variety.

Von Winning is one of Germany's best producers. Every wine in their extensive lineup is a treat, and their age-worthy Grosses Gewachs are masterpieces of the Pfalz. They also happen to make one of our favorite Sauvignon Blancs.

Sauvignon Blanc from Germany? Strange but true! The folks at Von Winning are true wine lovers, and in addition to making lights-out traditional Rieslings, they put their skills to work producing a Sauvignon Blanc that is more than just a delicious wine, with zippy fruit and a vibrant, mineral finish. We like to think of it as a sort of cheat code to understanding Sauvignon Blanc.

The wine has flavors of citrus and gooseberry (like the best New Zealand SBs) but it’s perfectly ripe, with notes of stone or even tropical fruits. Like Pouilly-Fumé or Sancerre from the very best sites, it has racy acidity that makes the wine vibrate. Putting this grape in the hands of a master, but outside of its usual haunts, is a fascinating way to see just how far its range extends — both geographically and in flavor terms.

Von Winning’s export manager, Andreas, recently surprised us when he told us that VW’s Sauvignon Blanc is his favorite wine in the lineup. But the surprise quickly evaporated when everyone had a sip and realized how complex and refreshing it was. To then see the price is like reverse sticker shock! 

Von Winning Sauvignon Blanc Lime Rift 2022 - $26.99