Wine bottle images courtesy of WineAlign, sauvignon blanc grapes courtesy of TasteTour.com

If you like sauvignon blanc, then try…

2010 Vega Murillo Verdejo, Do Rueda Spain $15.95 #268797

This is a simple, but enjoyable, introduction to verdejo, worth exploring for its attractive fruity, pear, guava and passion fruit aromas, balanced by minty-herbal notes. It delivers a medium-full bodied impression on the palate, quite rich and generous thanks to high-ish alcohol, and ripe peach and topical fruit salad flavours. Decent length; stylish all around.

Best: 2012.
Serving Temp.: 8ºC.
Pairing: Grilled sea bass with mango salsa.

2011 Tyrrell’s Brookdale Semillon, Hunter Valley, New South Wales Australia $19.95 #269316

Here’s a terrific example of young semillon, surprisingly approachable (Hunter Valley Semillon is notoriously age worthy, and gains considerable complexity with time). In any case, this has delightful green fig, lemon purée, fresh green herb, spearmint and grapefruit flavours, tight, bright acids and richly flavoured finish. A really fine example with finesse and refinement all around. If you haven’t tried Hunter Valley semillon, check this out.

Best: 2012-2022 (seriously).
Serving Temp.: 10º.
Pairing: Malaysian fried rice noodles with egg, chili, sausage, shrimp, lime and sprouts.

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John Szabo is a master sommelier and wine writer for Toronto Standard. Follow his tweets here: @johnszabo.

More recommendations by John Szabo at www.johnswines.com

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