Cave de Rois / Marco & François Grognuz, Valais (Switzerland) Sauvignon Blanc 2017

 This is the only Sauvignon Blanc that I tasted — or even saw — on a recent tasting trip, which means that the country has a spotless record with the variety.  Aged for 7 months entirely in first- and second-fill barrels, it is extremely well made in a style that routinely runs off the rails.  It shows some richness on the palate as well as a bit of oak spice, but also some pleasant grassy aromas and very good acidity that seems attributable to malolactic fermentation having been avoided.  Impressive winemaking skill could hardly be more evident in the finished wine.