It’s the summer and on Long Island Sauvignon Blanc is queen in my kingdom.  If you were wondering who the king is – it’s Long Island Rose.

Last week I told you about Palmer Vineyards and their Sauvignon Blanc – how they are nudging into my rankings of Sauvignon Blanc.  Well this Raphael Vineyards 2009 First Label Sauvignon Blanc ($22) is neck and neck with Shinn Estate Vineyards – which you will see here next week – is a leader of Sauvignon Blanc on Long Island in my opinion.

First a little info on Raphael’s  “First Label” wine, “First Label Sauvignon Blanc is one of 2 separate vineyard-designated Sauvignon Blancs that showcase the distinct differences in the terroir of our vineyard. It’s made from hand-harvested grapes grown on our original, 3-acre founding vineyard block planted in 1998” it sits on a gravelly sandy loam soil.   The other block of Sauvignon Blanc is from a 4 acre lot that was planted in 2004 and sits on a deep silt-loam.  The other Sauvignon Blanc is called “Grand Cru”.  However, today I am talking about Raphael Vineyards First Label Sauvignon Blanc.

On the nose I was picking up Grapefruit and tropical notes with a touch of lemongrass and kiwi.  There was  a wet ocean rock aroma as well with the slightest hint of fresh herbs.

Upon tasting I was picking up more of a juicy grapefruit, which dominated.  There was some tropical flavors as well.  There was great zinging acidity that was palate cleansing and the finish was pleasant with a nice herbal, minty note.

This is a great summer wine — refreshing and thirst quenching on a hot summer day.  It is a great way to start a summer meal or with a great seafood feast.  I had this with some sushi and it went very well.  The herbal note seemed to carry for a while and it made the meal more enjoyable.

Be on the look out for this recently released Sauvignon Blanc.  It is available in the tasting room — make sure it is available at your next dinner party.  It will enhance your summer dining experiences.