Sauvignon Blanc is known for which flavor notes?

• A. Floral notes
• B. Herbal notes
• C. Nutty notes
• D. Sweet fruit scents

Answer: (B)

Sauvignon Blanc is best recognized by its herbal notes. In many cool-climate examples (like Sancerre or Marlborough styles), the grape expresses a green, herbaceous character—think fresh-cut grass, green bell pepper, and assorted green herbs. This aroma profile comes from certain compounds in the grape that are accentuated by cooler growing conditions, making the herbal impression a defining trait of Sauvignon Blanc. Floral scents can appear in some wines, and oak aging can add toasty or vanilla nuances, but these are not as characteristic or dominant as the herbal, green-herb aroma. Nutty notes are more typical of aged or oak-influenced whites, and “sweet fruit scents” aren’t the signature descriptor for Sauvignon Blanc in its classic, dry styles.