Murphy Goode The Fume Sauvignon Blanc

Murphy Goode's The Fumé Sauvignon Blanc is a California white that takes its name from the old "fumé blanc" idea: Sauvignon Blanc given a light touch of oak rather than being made entirely in stainless steel. At 13.5% ABV, it sits in the middle of the range for the style, which suggests enough ripeness to round out the grape's sharper edges without tipping into heaviness. Expect the typical Sauvignon Blanc fruit profile of citrus, grapefruit and lime, with green notes such as cut grass or herbs and perhaps a touch of stone fruit or melon. Wines built this way usually show lively acidity and a medium body, with the oak adding a softer, slightly creamy texture and a faint toasty or vanilla note on the finish rather than outright wood flavor. Tannin is not a feature in a white of this kind, so the structure comes from acidity and texture instead. At the table, this style is flexible. Its acidity cuts through oily or rich dishes, which makes it a good match for grilled fish, shellfish, fish tacos and seared scallops. It also suits goat cheese salads, asparagus and herb-driven chicken dishes, and the slight oak weight lets it stand up to dishes with butter or cream sauces, such as a lemon-butter piccata. Pesto, green vegetables and light Southeast Asian dishes with fresh herbs are natural partners too. Serve it chilled, around 45 to 50°F, which is about two hours in the refrigerator or 30 minutes in an ice bucket. Going much colder mutes the fruit and the subtle oak character. Decanting is not necessary, though a few minutes in the glass will open up the aromatics. A standard white wine glass with a moderately narrow bowl keeps the citrus and herbal notes concentrated. This is a bottle meant for drinking young, within a couple of years of purchase, while the fruit and acidity are at their freshest, rather than one to cellar.