Daou Sauvignon Blanc

DAOU's Sauvignon Blanc comes from Paso Robles on California's Central Coast and carries a stated alcohol of 13.9%. That is moderate for a New World white, so expect a wine with some weight and ripeness rather than a lean, austere style. The producer's own description points to crisp acidity, lush tropical fruit and a mineral edge. Read that as passion fruit, pineapple and ripe citrus on the nose and palate, set against a firm acidic backbone and a smooth, clean finish. Sauvignon Blanc in warm inland growing areas usually leans tropical rather than grassy, and the stated profile fits that pattern. Because the fruit is generous, this bottle suits dishes that can match its richness without overpowering the acidity. Goat cheese is the classic partner, whether in a warm salad or crumbled over roasted beets. Shellfish also works well, such as seared scallops, shrimp with garlic and lemon, or oysters. Herb-driven cooking is a natural fit too: pesto pasta, chicken with tarragon or basil, or a Thai green curry, where the tropical notes can stand up to mild heat. Dressings built on lemon or vinegar are easier to pair with this wine than with softer, lower-acid whites. Heavily buttered sauces and strong smoked meats would likely flatten it. Serve it well chilled, around 45 to 50°F (7 to 10°C). Roughly two hours in the refrigerator, or thirty minutes in an ice bucket, gets it there. Colder than that mutes the fruit, and warmer than that makes the 13.9% alcohol more noticeable. Decanting isn't needed for a white of this style. Pouring it straight from the bottle keeps the aromatics fresh. A standard white wine glass with a moderately narrow bowl concentrates the tropical aromas, and a slightly larger tulip shape gives the fruit more room if you prefer a broader expression. This is a drink-now wine. Sauvignon Blanc is generally made for freshness, and the bright fruit and acidity are at their best within the first few years after release. Cellaring is unlikely to improve it, so open it while the fruit is vibrant.