Named with more than a nod towards the Sauvignon blanc grape. The area grows a wide range of grapes with Sauvignon blanc being particularly noted. This has prompted more producers to isolate their parcels of Sauvignon blanc. The flavors characteristic of Sauvignon blanc come from the chemicals "methoxypyrazines". It is well regarded for and primarily associated with Sauvignon blanc. In their place, plantings of the easier to cultivate Sauvignon blanc vine began to increase. Grapes grown here include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling, Syrah, Pinot gris, and Sauvignon blanc. The vineyards were planted with Sauvignon blanc in 1983. Winemakers in the Western Cape have experimented blending Chardonnay with Riesling and Sauvignon blanc. Mondavi had been offered a crop of particularly good Sauvignon blanc grapes by a grower. The area is planted largely with Riesling, Sauvignon blanc and Pinot noir. The limestone geology also suits Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon blanc. Marlborough is known for its dry climate, the Marlborough Sounds, and Sauvignon blanc wine. The skin of the Sauvignon blanc B grape has a pH of about 4.15. White wine production centres on Chardonnay and Sauvignon blanc which are often blended together.