Summer is here and with it comes the season of chic indulgence. From rooftop soirées to garden parties and even intimate yacht gatherings, summer is when life feels more vibrant, elegant and adventurous.
But what truly elevates these occasions? The perfect wine.
While sparkling wines like Cap Classique and full-bodied reds often dominate conversations around sophistication, Sauvignon Blanc is quickly becoming the go-to choice for summer.
Its crisp, lively character and versatility make it ideal for everything from casual al fresco lunches to luxurious evening affairs.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or someone looking for the perfect pairing for your summer menu, here are five reasons why Sauvignon Blanc deserves a spot on your table this season.
Sauvignon Blanc is effortlessly elegant yet uncomplicated
It strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and approachability. Its fresh, vibrant profile — marked by grassy, citrusy and tropical fruit notes — makes it a wine that’s both refreshing and versatile.
As Carryn Wiltshire, Marketing Manager of Steenberg Vineyards in Cape Town’s historic Constantia Valley, explains: “Sauvignon Blanc transitions seamlessly from casual al fresco lunches to extravagant rooftop dinners. Its elegance ensures it complements various dishes and settings, without overwhelming the palate.”
Unlike heavier reds or sparkling wines often relegated to welcome drinks, Sauvignon Blanc is the perfect companion throughout your event.
Whether it’s a chic yacht party or a laid-back garden brunch, its versatility means it pairs well with almost any dish or occasion.
The perfect pairing for summer’s light and fresh dishes
Summer menus are all about fresh, vibrant flavours and Sauvignon Blanc is nature’s answer to complementing them. Its refreshing acidity and herbaceous undertones elevate dishes like:
Appetisers: Fresh oysters, citrus-marinated prawns and goat cheese crostini.
Mains: Herb-roast chicken, seafood pasta and grilled vegetables.
Salads: Tomato and mozzarella Caprese or arugula with goat cheese and figs.
Steenberg’s Executive Chef Kerry Kilpin highlights how the herbaceous notes of Sauvignon Blanc, particularly Steenberg’s The Black Swan 2023 vintage, bring out the delicate flavours of these dishes.
“The bold, natural character of Sauvignon Blanc elevates the freshness of seafood, chicken and even vegetarian dishes, making it a showstopper on any summer menu.”
It’s a global favourite with South African excellence
Sauvignon Blanc is celebrated worldwide with iconic styles from Bordeaux, Sancerre, and Marlborough in New Zealand. But South Africa’s Constantia Valley is right up there with the best.
Sauvignon Blanc’s global appeal makes it a cosmopolitan choice for your summer gatherings, whether you’re hosting friends in Cape Town or dreaming of a Parisian rooftop dinner.
Sauvignon Blanc sets the mood for any summer theme
The beauty of Sauvignon Blanc lies not only in its taste but also in its ability to complement the vibe of your event. Here’s how it pairs perfectly with different summer themes:
Nautical yacht parties
A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the salty freshness of oysters and prawns. Decorate with blue-and-white accents to complete the nautical look.
Garden soirées
Lush greenery, fairy lights, and long harvest tables create an inviting atmosphere. Sauvignon Blanc pairs effortlessly with summer favourites like smoked salmon tartare or goat cheese tartlets.
Rooftop gatherings
Minimalist elegance is key for rooftop events, with soft lighting and sophisticated appetisers like smoked duck or creamy mushroom pasta.
For these occasions, a barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc with subtle oak notes and a fuller body, like Steenberg Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc 2023, adds depth and texture.
Chilled Sauvignon Blanc is summer in a glass
When it comes to summer, serving temperature matters. Sauvignon Blanc is best served chilled at 10–12°C, making it the ultimate refreshing escape from the heat. Keep your bottle in an ice bucket during outdoor events to ensure it stays crisp and vibrant.
Stylish glassware can also elevate the experience—opt for tulip-shaped glasses that concentrate the wine’s aromas, allowing you to fully appreciate its citrus, tropical and grassy notes.
Make it part of the experience
Sauvignon Blanc is more than just a wine — it’s an experience. Incorporate it into your event by creating a wine-tasting station where guests can explore different styles, from unoaked, zesty options to barrel-aged, creamier versions.
As Steenberg Winemaker Elunda Basson puts it: “Sauvignon Blanc is a wine that connects elegance with energy — simple yet layered, vibrant yet refined.”
So, whether you’re planning an intimate garden brunch, a glamorous yacht party, or a casual rooftop dinner, make Sauvignon Blanc your wine of choice this summer.
Its refreshing personality is sure to elevate every moment, leaving you and your guests with memories as vibrant as the season itself.