Giesen 0% Dealcoholized Sauvignon Blanc Spritz

Giesen's Sauvignon Blanc Spritz is a dealcoholized wine from Marlborough, New Zealand, labelled 0.0% ABV. It starts as Sauvignon Blanc, the grape the region is best known for, and it is served lightly sparkling. Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc typically shows passionfruit, grapefruit, lime zest and fresh-cut herbs. Removing the alcohol usually leaves a leaner, lighter-bodied drink. The bubbles and the grape's natural acidity then carry the freshness that alcohol would otherwise round out. Expect a crisp, citrus-led profile with a gentle prickle of fizz. There is no tannin and no oak influence to speak of, and the finish is likely to be short, clean and tangy rather than long and textured. I have no measured tasting data for this bottle, so those notes describe what the style usually delivers. The acidity and herbal edge suit food that is salty, fresh or sharp. Oysters, ceviche, grilled prawns and salt-and-pepper squid all work, as do goat's cheese salads, asparagus, and dishes built on lime, coriander or lemongrass. Fresh herb pestos and green-curry-style Thai dishes also hold up well. The citrus cuts through fried foods such as fish and chips or tempura, and it is a sensible pour with a cheese board of fresh chèvre, feta or young brie. Heavy cream sauces and red meats will tend to overwhelm a drink this light. Serve it well chilled, around 4 to 7°C. A bottle straight from the fridge is right, and an ice bucket helps on a warm day. Do not decant it. Pouring vigorously only knocks out the bubbles, so pour it gently down the side of the glass. A standard white wine glass or a small flute shows off the aromatics best. A wider glass lets the fizz fade faster. Some people like to pour over ice with a lime wedge or a sprig of mint, which stretches the pour and softens the acidity a little. This is a drink-now bottle, not something to cellar. Sparkling, low-alcohol and zero-alcohol styles are made for freshness and lose their lift and carbonation with age, so keep it cool and drink it within the window on the label. Once opened, finish it the same day, because the bubbles will not last.