Which of the following is a common flavor characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc?

Sauvignon Blanc is widely recognized for its vibrant flavor profile that includes prominent citrus and green apple notes. The grape variety thrives in various regions, often resulting in wines that showcase zesty flavors reminiscent of lime, lemon, and grapefruit, coupled with the crispness of green apple. This characteristic is particularly evident in Sauvignon Blanc from cooler climates, such as New Zealand and the Loire Valley in France, where the cooler growing conditions preserve high acidity and accentuate these fresh fruit flavors.

While other wine styles may display flavors that are spicy, buttery, or earthy, these do not typically characterize Sauvignon Blanc. For instance, spicy and herbal notes can be more associated with varieties like Syrah or even some white blends, while rich and buttery flavors are hallmarks of full-bodied wines like Chardonnay that have undergone malolactic fermentation. Earthy and mineral qualities are more common in terroir-driven wines such as certain Pinot Grigios or some Chardonnay as well, depending on the vineyard's soil composition. Therefore, the defining attributes of Sauvignon Blanc strongly align with citrus and green apple flavors, reinforcing the choice of that answer as the correct one.