Sauv far, sauv good with this summer white

ALES of sauvignon blanc invariably go through the roof during the summer. Easygoing, straightforward and fabulous with or without food, it's a treat on a warm day and up there with the likes of chardonnay and pinot grigio in popularity. This green-skinned grape comes from Bordeaux and probably takes its name from the French words sauvage (wild) and blanc (white), originating as an indigenous grape in south-west France.

- by Matt Nixson

Its hardiness means it can be grown in almost all wine regions which partly explains its global ubiquity - but, because it ripens early, it thrives in sunny climates that are not overwhelmingly hot - slowing ripening and allowing the balance between acidity and sugar levels, and hence flavours, to develop.