Up-and-coming Sauvignon Blancs

When lots of fresh green veggies are on the menu, SauvignonBlanc is the wine to open. Peas, asparagus, and artichokes allshare the spirit of this crisp, citrusy, sometimes grassy whitewine. Add tangy goat cheese, tender shrimp, or briny oysters to themix, and March eating and drinking is as good as it gets.

For Sauvignon Blanc, Northern California’s Lake County is theplace to watch. With combinations of delicate lemon grass, tartgrapefruit, subtle minerals, and food-friendly acid, these are ournew favorites.

Monte Lago 2003 $13; Monte Lago Winery or510/599-5246

Shannon Ridge High Valley 2004 $15; Shannon Ridge or707/998-9656

Wildhurst Reserve 2004 $11; Wildhurst Vineyards or800/595-9463

Perfect recipes

Incorporating the season’s freshest ingredients, these dishespair beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc:

Artichokes

Artichokes and Spinach au Gratin
Crab and Artichoke Salad
Linguine with Artichokes and Lemon
Roasted Artichoke Salad with Lemon and Mint
Artichoke Crab Paella
Grilled Artichokes

Asparagus

Asparagus and Shrimp Stir-Fry on Noodle Pillows
Asparagus Salad with Fava Bean Sauce
Asparagus Sole Rolls
Asparagus with Watercress

Shrimp

Arugula and Shrimp Salad
Chinese Shrimp and Pea Rice Bowl
Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Lemon-Basil Shrimp with Rice
Lemon and Shrimp Capellini
Shrimp Celery Victor

Scallops

Seared Scallops in Mint Broth with Peas and Roasted Tomatoes
Pronto Scallop Risotto
Scallop and Sugar Snap Pea Stir-Fry
Grilled Scallop and Shrimp Salad

Oysters

Barbecued Oysters
Oysters with Alioli
Roasted Oysters Decadence

Peas

Three Peas with Leeks, Mint, and Cream
Fresh Peas and Pasta
Pasta with Mint and Peas
Petite Peas with Greens
Ravioli with Green Pea Pesto
Pea Risotto

More

Mâche with Spring Vegetables and Lemon Vinaigrette
Halloumi with Couscous and Greens
Orechiette with Ricotta and Basil
Rustic Spring Vegetable Stew
Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese Medallions