La Motte Sauvignon Blanc 2020 is a crisp, aromatic white wine from the La Motte estate in South Africa's Franschhoek Valley, a region known for producing wines with excellent balance and freshness. The 2020 vintage of this Sauvignon Blanc showcases the cool climate of the area, which provides the ideal conditions for growing vibrant, expressive grapes. The wine reflects La Motte's commitment to creating wines that highlight the region's unique terroir.
Appearance:
The wine has a pale straw color with subtle greenish hues, indicating its youth and fresh character. It is clear and bright, with a vibrant appearance that suggests liveliness and crispness.
Nose:
On the nose, La Motte Sauvignon Blanc 2020 is aromatic and intense, with a bouquet of citrus fruits like lime, lemon, and grapefruit, which provide an immediate burst of freshness. There are also notes of green apple and gooseberry, adding complexity and depth to the fruit profile. As the wine opens up, you might detect subtle herbaceous aromas of cut grass and bell pepper, characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc, along with a hint of mineral or flinty notes. These elements combine to create a crisp, zesty, and refreshing aromatic profile that is typical of cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc.
Palate:
On the palate, La Motte Sauvignon Blanc 2020 is medium-bodied with a crisp, refreshing acidity that provides a clean, vibrant mouthfeel. The citrus and green fruit flavors are mirrored on the palate, with lemon, lime, and grapefruit dominating, while the green apple and gooseberry add layers of freshness and complexity. The wine has a distinct minerality that comes through, enhancing its crispness and giving it a sophisticated edge. The herbaceous character of the grape is evident, adding an earthy or grassy quality to the flavor profile. The finish is clean, refreshing, and crisp, with lingering citrus and mineral notes.
Finish:
The finish is long and zesty, with the refreshing acidity and citrus flavors lingering on the palate. The wine’s crispness is persistent, leaving a clean, bright aftertaste that invites another sip.
Pairing:
The La Motte Sauvignon Blanc 2020 is a versatile wine that pairs exceptionally well with a variety of foods. Its crisp acidity makes it an excellent match for seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, oysters, or shrimp cocktails. It also pairs well with light salads, particularly those with goat cheese or citrus-based dressings, and dishes like grilled vegetables, goat cheese salads, or ceviche. For a more substantial pairing, it complements chicken or turkey dishes, especially those with herb-based sauces or lemon flavors. Additionally, it works wonderfully with sushi or fresh vegetable dishes.
Overall Impression:
The La Motte Sauvignon Blanc 2020 is a fresh, vibrant, and elegant wine that captures the essence of the Franschhoek Valley terroir. Its crisp acidity, bright citrus and green fruit flavors, and subtle herbaceous character make it an excellent expression of cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is perfect for those who appreciate a crisp, refreshing white with a clean, lingering finish. It is approachable and versatile, making it a great choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food.
