Mason Cellars "Pomelo" Sauvignon Blanc '09

Sauvignon blanc seems to be on a roll these days. Now don't get me wrong, chardonnay is still king, but it seems that a lot of folks that are looking for alternatives are gravitating to sauvignon blanc for it's clean, crisp textures and vibrancy of fruit. Yes the best sauvignon blancs in the world (for me) still come from the Loire Valley of France and in particular from Sancerre, but there are great values to be had elsewhere. Mason is one of California's finest sauvignon blanc producers. Their delicious mid-level bottling can be had for a mere $14.99 or so and they have introduced a $9.99 bottling called "Pomelo" A pomelo is an asian fruit with a very thick skin that tastes like a sweeter version of grapefruit. Mason's delicious "Pomelo" has plenty of grapefruit, lemon and a very mild touch of that sauvignon blanc grassiness on the nose. It also features great texture and plenty of bright citrus flavors in the mouth as well as good balancing acidity. Sauvignon blanc is an early ripening varietal that thrives in cooler climates, so California producers have to be especially careful with regards to hang time and harvest time. Mason is one producer that always seems to get it right. Cheers!