Coming from the Sunshine State, where most of the United States’ oranges and grapefruits are grown, you can’t help but be partial to citrus flavors. That’s probably why I like Sauvignon Blanc so much. I usually drink Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand, but I’m always open to trying ones from different regions. So, when I saw Pomelo, a California Sauvignon Blanc from Mason Cellars, I just had to check it out.

Pomelo is named after the fruit, a natural citrus fruit, similar in appearance to a large grapefruit, native to South and Southeast Asia. The pomelo is one of the four original citrus species from which the rest of cultivated citrus hybridized. I wish I had tried one when I visited Thailand, it would have helped with this tasting ☹

Courtesy Mason Cellars

Mason Cellars has been creating classically-styled, California wines in Napa Valley since 1993. The family has grown their collection by spending time in the vineyards, making wines true to their varietal character. Mason Cellars Pomelo wines are known for their refreshing and expressive fruit profiles. Sourced from California’s North Coast counties, the family works closely with growers to hand select grapes that ripe gradually and evenly, producing clean, approachable, and balanced flavors.

The Sauvignon Blanc is grown in rich, red volcanic soils of Mason Vineyard in Lake County. Fruit from the coastal influenced Monterey County and from the mineral rich soils of Clarksburg provide add complexity to the blend (97% Sauvignon Blanc and 3% Chenin Blanc). The blocks are harvested at optimal ripeness and then separately fermented in stainless steel tanks at cold (55°F) temperatures to retain varietal character and bright, clean fruit flavors.

The wine is pale yellow in color with a bouquet of citrus on the nose. On the palate, I noted citrus, white fruit, and grassiness. There was a flavor in there I couldn’t put my finger on – so I’m guessing it was the pomelo fruit. It was definitely light and fresh. Very enjoyable. I paired it with a walk through my garden. You can get it at Total Wine for $12 – not a bad value at all. 3.5/5.