Vins de Pays d'Oc, officially recognized as an appellation since 1987, are produced in Languedoc Roussillon. This area covers four districts: le Gard, l'Hérault, l'Aude and les Pyrénées Orientales. The B&G Sauvignon Blanc comes from the Herault Department. VINTAGE In 1998, quantities produced in Languedoc Roussillon are considerably less than normal (17% less than 1997). The reason was the frost of April 14th (in the Aude region) followed by the drought which affected the West of the Languedoc (including the Aude region, the Pyrénées Orientales region and the Beziers plain). The shortfall concerned principally the traditional varieties (Grenache and Carignan) and the Chardonnay. The other grapes (Merlot, Cabernet and Sauvignon Blanc) were less affected. The Sauvignon Blanc is less aromatically intense than in 1997. On the other hand, the wine shows more complexity and finesse with slightly exotic flavors. WINEMAKING Because Sauvignon Blanc is very sensitive to oxidation, contact between the grape must with air during vinification must be avoided. After gentle pressing of the berries, addition of a small amount of sulfur dioxide and a very short settling period (3 hours), the must is fermented at low temperature (65° F maximum). Several months aging on fine lees (spent yeast cells) follows, with gentle stirring to avoid oxidation. In 1998, the aromas are atypical: the wine shows exotic fruit aromas instead of traditional black currant bud and grapefruit notes. WINEMAKER NOTES Brilliant straw yellow color. Fine, elegant and complex with aromas of exotic fruit (passionfruit and banana). Smooth and round attack. This fleshy wine has a fresh finish with pleasant toasty notes.