Semillon Chardonays

[Randy Caparoso]

Ditto. But you know, you are already on the right track. For a great value, have you looked into the Hunter Valley/Australian Semillon-Chardonnay made by Rosemount? Beautifully soft, round, viscous texture, and tropical fruit tones under a light veil of smoky oak -- all for under $8. For just a little more but exceptional in quality, the Geyser Peak Semchard (made mostly from the silky smooth, figgy, tobacco-ish Semillon) is also a good bet.

But here's another factor: Since your metabolism is obviously changing, you need to start nibbling on a little something while you sip. It won't hurt to have some palate-stimulating tidbits. That's why they call them appetizers. But I bet you can still enjoy a good Sauvignon Blanc if you do.

I also suspect that alcohol has as much to do with the burning sensation as acidity. You might also want to go to some lighter style Sauvignon Blancs -- like a Cheverny, Sancerre, or (if you can find one) Quincy from France; which although pure in varietal makeup, all tend to have alcohol levels closer to 11% than the normal 12%-13% found in California Sauvignon Blancs. California, however, is not a hopeless cause; Frog's Leap in Napa Valley, and Murphy-Goode in Alexander Valley, are both known for their lighter, easier styles (although Murphy-Goode also makes a fuller, round and toasty-oaked "Fume Reserve").

Finally, you might consider other light, moderately weighted white wines. I imagine that you might not like Chardonnays that much. I would suggest that you explore Pinot Blancs from California, Oregon or Alsace, which can have the richness of pear/melony fruit similar to Chards and SBs, but which are nowhere near as heavy as Chards, and not as acidic as SBs. Another good varietal to explore is Pinot Gris, which is somewhere between Chard and SB in crispness/acidity, and usually a little lighter than SB. Oregon makes some wonderfully flavorful and easy Pinot Gris; and Italian styles (i.e. Pinot Grigio) are getting better, and even more serious, than ever.

Hope this helps!