A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Sauvignon Blanc
Master the pronunciation of this crisp white wine by focusing on the nasal French ending and the soft G sound.
sauvignon blanc
soh-vin-YOHN BLAWN
/ˌsoʊvɪnˈjoʊn ˈblɒŋ/ · sau · vi · gnon · blanc
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It refers to a popular, high-acid white wine often associated with the Loire Valley or New Zealand. Use it when ordering a glass or discussing your preference for dry, citrusy whites.
Where the word comes from
The name comes from the French word sauvage, meaning wild, referring to the grape's origins as a wild vine. Blanc simply means white in French.
Common ways people get it wrong
- saw-vig-non blank Avoid pronouncing the G or the final K; the French origin requires a soft, nasalized finish.
Frequently asked
Do I pronounce the G in Sauvignon?
No, the G is silent in French. It functions to soften the preceding vowel sound rather than creating a hard consonant.
Is it pronounced blank or blawn?
It is pronounced blawn. The final C is silent, and the A is nasalized as it would be in standard French.
Should I try to sound French when saying it?
You do not need an accent, but aiming for the correct vowel sounds helps you be understood by sommeliers and staff.
How do the French pronounce Sauvignon Blanc?
The French pronunciation is roughly "so-vin-yon blahnk." The 'g' is soft, and the 'c' at the end of Blanc is silent.
Is the C silent in Sauvignon Blanc?
Yes, the 'c' at the end of Blanc is silent in the standard pronunciation. It is pronounced as 'blahn'.
Is there a difference between Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc?
Sauvignon Blanc is a specific grape variety. Sauvignon is a more general term that can refer to the grape or wines made from it.
What is the pronunciation of Sauvignon Blanc?
The most common pronunciation is 'so-vin-yon blahnk.' Pay attention to the soft 'g' sound and the silent 'c'.
