Celebrate Sauvignon Blanc Day With Us

Every first Friday of May, wine lovers around the world raise a glass to celebrate the zesty, vibrant magic that is Sauvignon Blanc. At Plantagenet, we believe there’s no better place to savour this lively variety than the Great Southern – and no better time than now.

Let’s dive into the story of Sauvignon Blanc in Australia, explore why the Great Southern produces such incredible expressions and showcase two of our standout releases: the Plantagenet Three Lions Sauvignon Blanc and the Omrah Sauvignon Blanc.

A Brief History of Sauvignon Blanc in Australia

Sauvignon Blanc first made its journey to Australia in the 19th century, travelling from its native France, where it famously flourished in Bordeaux and the Loire Valley. Australian winemakers were quick to embrace its refreshing style and over the decades, regions like Margaret River, Adelaide Hills, and our very own Great Southern have made Sauvignon Blanc a true Aussie favourite.

Mount Barker’s cool continental climate and pristine natural environment proved to be a perfect match for the variety, allowing it to ripen slowly, retain natural acidity and develop beautifully intense aromatics. Today, Sauvignon Blanc is one of the region’s signature white wines – vibrant, complex and unmistakably refreshing.

Aromatic Profiles of Great Southern Sauvignon Blanc

What sets Great Southern Sauvignon Blanc apart? It’s all about the climate, the soils and the unique character of this untouched corner of Western Australia.

Unlike coastal wine regions, the Mount Barker is characterised by a climate that leans more towards continental than maritime. With vineyards typically 300m above sea level and more than 35km from the coast, the lack of direct ocean influence means cold night temperatures play a much greater role. These cool evenings are essential for slowing ripening and preserving acidity – something that’s become a signature of the subregions of Mount Barker, Porongurup and Frankland River.

The result? Sauvignon Blancs with pure fruit, crisp structure and remarkable tension. Combine this with ancient gravelly loam soils, and you get wines that are bursting with lifted aromatics and intricate layers of flavour.

Expect intense notes of passionfruit, guava, lemongrass and snow pea, often balanced by a subtle minerality and fine texture. In cooler years, more herbaceous and citrus-driven profiles shine, while warmer seasons bring out richer tropical fruits and a softer, more generous mouthfeel.

Fun Facts About Sauvignon Blanc

It’s got noble roots
Sauvignon Blanc is one of the world’s classic white grape varieties, believed to have originated in the Loire Valley of France. Its name comes from the French word sauvage, meaning “wild,” a nod to its vigorous growth and untamed nature in the vineyard.

It’s the parent of Cabernet Sauvignon
This crisp white actually has a famous offspring. Sauvignon Blanc crossed with Cabernet Franc to produce none other than Cabernet Sauvignon – one of the world’s most renowned red wine grapes.

It’s a globe-trotter
While France and New Zealand are famous for their Sauvignon Blanc, the variety has also made a name for itself at home in Australia, as well as in Chile, South Africa and the USA. Each region puts its own spin on the style.

It loves a cool breeze
Sauvignon Blanc thrives in cooler climates – like the Great Southern region of WA – where chilly nights and long, sunny days help preserve its signature acidity and vibrant aromatics.

It’s a sensory rollercoaster
From zesty lime and passionfruit to cut grass, snow pea and flint, Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most aromatic white wines around. In some soils, it can even show off notes of gun smoke or fresh herbs.

Best served chilled – but not too cold
Too much chill can mute the beautiful aromatics of Sauvignon Blanc. The sweet spot? Around 8–10°C to bring out all that citrusy zing and tropical charm.

It’s the ultimate food wine
With its high acidity and herbaceous lift, Sauvignon Blanc is a natural match for goat cheese, seafood, sushi, fresh salads and anything with green herbs or a squeeze of lime.

Taste the Difference: Plantagenet Three Lions Sauvignon Blanc

Our 2024 Three Lions Sauvignon Blanc is pure sunshine in a glass – a vibrant, expressive wine that captures the energy and freshness of the Great Southern.

Brimming with passionfruit, gooseberry and citrus zest aromas, it explodes onto the palate with lively fruit flavours and a mouth-watering crispness. A touch of texture and minerality gives it a refined, dry finish that keeps you coming back for more. This is a classic, easy-drinking Sauvignon Blanc – perfect for a lazy afternoon by the coast or a long lunch under the gum trees.

Pair it with: Goat’s cheese salads, fresh seafood, or a simple plate of chargrilled vegetables.

Explore the 2024 Three Lions Sauvignon Blanc

Discover Coastal Elegance: Omrah Sauvignon Blanc

A different expression, but every bit as delicious, the 2024 Omrah Sauvignon Blanc brings a slightly more refined, coastal feel to the glass.

With lifted aromas of tropical fruits, lime blossom and a hint of fresh-cut herbs, it’s bright and vibrant on the palate, balanced by refreshing acidity and a subtle saline finish – a nod to the wild Southern Ocean. The Omrah label celebrates the adventurous spirit of WA’s coastline, and this Sauvignon Blanc is no exception – lively, fresh and made for those who love to explore.

Pair it with: Grilled prawns, sashimi, or a fragrant Thai green curry.

Explore the 2024 Omrah Sauvignon Blanc

Raise a Glass This Sauvignon Blanc Day

Whether you’re a die-hard Sauvignon Blanc fan or discovering it for the first time, there’s no better moment to open a bottle and celebrate this expressive variety.

We invite you to sip, savour and celebrate everything that makes Great Southern Sauvignon Blanc so unforgettable.

Happy Sauvignon Blanc Day!