Populis Sauvignon Blanc, Mendocino County, California

Some Sauvignon Blancs shout. The 2025 Populis Sauvignon Blanc prefers a relaxed conversation. Sourced from some of California’s oldest Sauvignon Blanc vines—many planted in the 1940s- this distinctive white wine captures the easygoing spirit of old-vine fruit while delivering remarkable complexity and freshness. Combining the tropical generosity of California with the savory, herbaceous charm of classic Loire Valley examples, it is a wine that proves Sauvignon Blanc can be both vibrant and deeply nuanced.

Product Details:

• Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Alcohol: 12.5% ABV
• Closure: Cork
• Viticulture: Practicing Organic
• Vineyard Sources: Larry Venturi Vineyard and Upton Vineyard
• Vine Age: Approximately 60–80+ years old
• Soils: Pinole gravelly loam and organically farmed valley soils
• Farming: Organic and dry-farmed vineyards
• Harvest: Hand-harvested
• Winemaking: Small portion macerated on skins for five days; remaining fruit direct pressed
• Fermentation: Vineyard lots fermented separately in stainless steel tanks
• Élevage: Racked off gross lees and blended shortly after harvest

Sensory Description:

Old-vine character shines through in this expressive Sauvignon Blanc. Aromas of guava, key lime, lemon zest, and fresh citrus leap from the glass, accompanied by subtle notes of lemon balm, wild herbs, and soft grassiness. On the palate, the wine balances tropical fruit richness with savory complexity, offering flavors of citrus, green melon, white peach, and gentle herbal undertones. Bright acidity carries the wine through a textured, energetic finish with impressive length and a lingering mineral freshness. The result is both refreshing and surprisingly layered, showcasing a softer, more sophisticated side of Sauvignon Blanc.

Winemaker's Background:

Populis is the collaborative project of winemakers Diego Roig and Jason Jardine, focused on producing honest, approachable wines from organically farmed vineyards throughout California. Their philosophy emphasizes old vines, sustainable farming, minimal intervention, and transparent winemaking that allows vineyard character to shine. By working with historic vineyard sites and thoughtful growers, Populis crafts wines that are vibrant, food-friendly, and reflective of California’s diverse terroirs. The Sauvignon Blanc has become one of the winery’s signature bottlings, particularly due to its connection to some of the oldest surviving Sauvignon Blanc vines in the United States.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled at 45–50°F (7–10°C). This versatile Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with oysters, grilled shrimp, ceviche, fresh salads, goat cheese, roasted vegetables, sushi, and herb-driven Mediterranean cuisine. Its bright acidity and savory complexity also make it an excellent match for spicy dishes, including Thai and Vietnamese fare.