Sutherland Vineyards, Elgin (Cape South Coast, South Africa) Sauvignon Blanc 2021

 Sutherland’s Elgin Sauvignon Blanc exemplifies the magic of the region.  Its racy acidity is exciting but the flavors are what push this beautiful Sauvignon Blanc to the next level.  Tropical passion fruit, grapefruit, under-ripe pear, lime, and green apple skins dominate the palate with undertones of white flowers, a little saline tinge, and just a hint of grass … to remind you that this is Sauvignon Blanc.  For me, Elgin Sauvignon Blancs are magical.  The region sits east of Cape Town and the combination of higher elevations and coastal-influenced winds maintain a cooler temperature.  This cooler temperature is an excellent counterbalance to the region’s sunshine — the cooler temperatures protect the grapes and help retain acidity while the sunshine powers the flavor development during the grape’s growth cycle.  The bottom line: I would love to see more Elgin Sauvignon Blancs on the market as this one clearly outperforms its price.