Blue Mountain Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Okanagan Valley $21.99
You won't see the VQA (Vintners Quality Alliance) seal of approval on a bottle from Blue Mountain – the winery doesn't do competitions. (I know some hot shots who will sneak a product or two into a judging, just to see how they'll fare. They're always at the top of their category.) This grapefruity Sauvignon Blanc (aka Fumé Blanc) made from estate-grown grapes is not as bright as some New Zealand classics, but it has a mouthwatering acidity and a long finish. Sauvignon Blanc meets the challenge of tricky matches such as soups, salads, green vegetables and yogurt-based dishes, but its ample acidity also complements light fish, raw oysters. It's perfect match with goat cheeses. Many find Sauvignon Blanc too intense as a cocktail sipper, but this one is an exception to the rule. Available at private wine shops.
Kasey Wilson is food editor of Wine Access Magazine and editor of Best Places Vancouver.