Time to get the big dogs out of the cellar. I put the two top Sauvignon Blancs from my stash out to air on the deck for an all-out competition.
I put out like vintages (2009) of the Merry Edwards Russian River and the Alpha Omega 1155 for the taste-off. Out of the bottle, Edwards is a strong, gooseberry-ish quaff with a nice grassy nose. That grass does not dominate like those from New Zealand and elsewhere. Alpha is my usual fav with its light grapefruit, peach and pear throughout. The 1155 is the upgraded offering over the regular Sauvignon Blanc, being estate-grown right at the tasting room.
Over time, the Alpha faded a bit, becoming lighter and less fruity. Edwards stayed strong, mellowing slightly allowing the peaches, pears, and slight apricot to show. The finish of both is like cream on top of a bowl of canned peaches.. just light and tasty.
In the end, we both agreed that Merry Edwards won the day. This could be the best Sauvignon Blanc produced anywhere, Sauternes excluded of course. It is certainly the American-made wine to beat. As a bonus, you can now buy it locally! The Alpha remains a club-only deal, but since I'm in the club, I get my fill.
Do the Merry Edwards. This IS the Sauvignon Blanc to beat.
T-Scale: Merry Edwards - 93; Alpha Omega 1155 91. I might actually like the Alpha regular issues a bit better. Both of these wines are at the top of the American Sauvignon Blanc experience.
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