Pago de la Jaraba, La Mancha (Spain) Sauvignon Blanc 2019

 This is seriously delicious and impressive Sauvignon from a rather unlikely seeming locale, namely, La Mancha…which is famously warm and sunny.  I loved the 2017 edition of this wine, and this one may be even better, so this is no fluke.  It is also a little less unlikely on further reflection, as the wine is supremely refreshing, and what could be a more important virtue than that during summer in La Mancha?  It is just barely medium-bodied, which makes it very versatile for sipping or partnering with foods at the table, with lots of zesty acidity but also enough substance to work with lots of different dishes.  The fruit profile is poised right on the balance point between melon and citrus notes on the Sauvignon spectrum, perhaps tilting just a few degrees in the citrus direction.  The substantial flavors and zesty acidity both hold their own in beautiful balance through the finish, which is a sure sign of very wise picking decisions and really solid work in the cellar.