Surely is a US-based producer of non-alcoholic wines, claiming to use proprietary techniques that preserve the full spectrum of flavours even after the alcohol has been removed from their crafted wines. They refer to this process as “molecular mixology”, a term that, well, sounds a bit like it belongs to a different generation. But, as they say, you can’t judge a wine by its marketing. Their non-alcoholic wines are made from Californian grapes, fermented in-house, and then subjected to the spinning cone method to remove the alcohol. To enhance the flavour profile, they incorporate what they call “natural ingredients, botanicals, and teas.” Including in their Surely Blanc.
The big question is, does it actually work?
I gave the non-alcoholic Blanc a try to find out.
It’s worth noting that on their website, Surely makes a point to clarify that their Blanc is not a Sauvignon Blanc, but rather a “unique sip”. That said, I’ll be comparing it to traditional Sauvignon Blanc, as it shares some key flavour characteristics.
Appearance
The Surely non-alcoholic Blanc presents with a pale, straw-like hue that’s strikingly similar to traditional Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a light, clean colour that signals freshness and delicacy, but without the more intense greenish tinges you might find in a Sauvignon. Whatever teas or botanicals were involved in this wine, they certainly didn’t impact its visual appeal. The clarity is excellent – clear, bright, and inviting, making it very visually appealing. There’s an undeniable elegance to its simplicity, and while it might not scream “complexity,” it still holds its own with a clean and refreshing look.
Aroma
On the nose, Surely Blanc is immediately dominated by citrusy notes, particularly grapefruit and green apple, which gives it that sharp, invigorating quality associated with Sauvignon Blanc. Underneath the fruit, there’s a subtle hint of herbal complexity – perhaps a touch of grass or lemon balm – which gives the aroma a bit of depth, reminiscent of the more traditional Sauvignon profiles. While the aroma isn’t as intense as its alcoholic counterpart, it is nonetheless inviting and pleasant. The herbal undertones are well integrated, creating a rounded and approachable nose, although I’d personally appreciate a bit more intensity in the aromatic delivery. It’s fresh and clean, which is definitely a plus, though there’s room for a little more aromatic boldness.
Taste
In terms of taste, Surely Blanc is medium-bodied and dry, with a fruit-forward character. The citrus notes of grapefruit and lime hit the palate first, followed by a refreshing burst of pear and apple. The wine’s bright acidity really shines through, offering a crisp, clean flavour that’s characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc, even if it doesn’t fully replicate the exact profile. There’s a slight addition of passion fruit, which adds a tropical flair to the mix, and in the background, I picked up a hint of juniper – a unique note that sets this wine apart from a traditional Sauvignon Blanc.
However, despite the promising combination of flavours, I didn’t experience the spicy notes that the producers mention in their marketing. A little more balance in the flavour profile would have been ideal, but overall, it’s a pleasant drink. The wine doesn’t aim to replicate Sauvignon Blanc exactly. But it gives off a similar vibe, with a few extra twists. The botanical elements they’ve added are discernible but don’t overpower the fruit. This keeps the wine from venturing into novelty territory. It’s definitely an interesting variation, and while the flavour doesn’t hit the same marks as a classic Sauvignon, it still provides a satisfying, refreshing sip.
Mouthfeel
When it comes to mouthfeel, Surely non-alcoholic Blanc maintains a light and crisp texture. It’s as you’d expect from a dry white wine. It’s relatively thin, with a quick, clean delivery that doesn’t linger for too long on the palate. While this isn’t the kind of wine that coats your mouth with richness, it doesn’t need to be. It’s designed to be refreshing. And that’s exactly how it feels. The lack of alcohol contributes to a more lightweight sensation. But the balance of fruit and botanical flavours ensures that it isn’t too hollow. It stays just long enough to make you want another sip, which is the hallmark of a truly drinkable wine.
Finish
The finish is clean and fairly quick, with the apple notes lasting the longest. The wine leaves you with a subtle, refreshing aftertaste. It invites you to take another sip without lingering on your tongue too long. There’s a nice dryness to the finish that complements the fruit-forward character, but it doesn’t feel harsh. The wine’s lightness and freshness make it an ideal choice for casual sipping. The finish ensures that you’re not left with an overwhelming or heavy sensation. It’s a great palate cleanser, offering just enough to keep you coming back for more.
Pairing Suggestions
Thanks to its fruit-forward character and bright acidity, Surely non-alcoholic Blanc is versatile when it comes to food pairings. Its citrus notes make it a perfect match for light salads, especially those featuring goat cheese or a citrus vinaigrette. The crispness of the wine also makes it a fantastic companion for seafood dishes. Think grilled shrimp or fish tacos, where the wine can complement the fresh, delicate flavours of the seafood. For a more substantial pairing, try it with dishes that feature fresh herbs – think basil and tomato bruschetta. The wine’s herbal undertones will enhance the dish’s natural flavours. The wine’s crispness means it pairs well with anything that’s light, fresh, and vibrant. So it’s an excellent choice for summer dining or casual meals.
Overall Impression of Surely Blanc
Surely Blanc is a pleasant and approachable option for those seeking a non-alcoholic wine with a profile similar to Sauvignon Blanc. While it doesn’t replicate the full complexity of a traditional Sauvignon, it makes for a satisfying alternative, especially if you’re looking for something light, crisp, and refreshing. The subtle botanical and tea notes provide an interesting twist, but they never overwhelm the primary flavours. Instead of steering the wine into novelty territory, they enhance the overall profile, offering a slightly different take on the typical Sauvignon Blanc experience.
Overall, Surely Blanc is not a wine that will blow you away with complexity. However, it does offer a refreshing, drinkable experience. Its light, fruit-forward character and clean finish make it an enjoyable option for those who want a non-alcoholic wine that feels familiar but still brings something unique to the table. It’s a wine that fits well into the category of accessible, easy-drinking wines, and one that pairs well with a variety of light, fresh foods.
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic alternative to Sauvignon Blanc, Surely Blanc is definitely worth a try. It offers just enough of the familiar alongside some fresh and creative twists.