Sauvots

Sauvots, also known as Sauvignon Tardive or Late Maturity Sauvignon, are a type of grape variety used in winemaking. They are a mutation of the Sauvignon Blanc grape, which is commonly used in white wines, particularly in the Loire Valley region of France.

Sauvots are characterized by their thick skin and low yield, making them more challenging to cultivate than other grape varieties. However, their unique characteristics contribute to the distinctive flavor profiles of wines made from them. The grapes tend to mature later than their Sauvignon Blanc counterparts, which is where the name "Tardive" or "Late" comes from. This leads to a more complex and developed flavor profile, with notes of apricot, peach, and other tropical fruits.

When used in winemaking, Sauvot grapes can produce wines with a rich, full-bodied texture and a crisp acidity. The wines are often described as having a balanced mix of fruit flavors and subtle oak influences. Sauvots are also known to retain a higher level of tannins, which provides a structural backbone to the wine.

In recent years, there has been a rise in interest in Sauvot wines, particularly among winemakers looking to create unique and complex wines. However, the limited availability of Sauvot grapes and the high costs associated with winemaking techniques required to work with these grapes have contributed to their relatively high price. As a result, Sauvot wines remain a boutique product, sought after by connoisseurs and enthusiasts of rare and exotic wines.