With so many types of white wine on the market, figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a novice wine enthusiast or a seasoned pro looking to try something new, white wine offers a wide range of flavor profiles to please even the pickiest of palates. From fruity to dry, you’re sure to find a wine you’ll love.
The Wine Cellar Group has a vast collection of white wines, and our experts can help you decide. In this guide, we’ll go over the basics of what makes a white wine, the most popular varieties, and what you can do to pick the right bottle for your special occasion.
|
Table of Contents |
Understanding White Wines
What makes white wine different from red wine? To start, white wines are made with different grapes. Red wine gets its vibrant color from red grapes and the inclusion of the skins in the fermentation process. On the other hand, white wines use lighter grapes, and the skins are not included in fermentation.
While the grapes used in white wine are typically green or yellowish, the pulp is colorless. When the grapes are crushed, some of the juice comes into contact with the skin of the grape. This gives the wine its signature clear, slightly yellow look. The grapes also contribute to the wine’s drier flavor profile.
Popular Types of White Wine
The unique flavor profile of each white wine comes from the variety of grapes used, the region the grapes grew in, the winemaking techniques used, sugar levels, and more. To understand the flavors of each drink, you need to know the history behind the grapes and the techniques used to create the finished product.
As you dip your toes into the world of white wines, having a guide can help you keep track of these important distinctions. Here’s a brief overview of the popular types of white wine for quick reference.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is the most popular white wine in the United States, and it's for a good reason. Its creamy texture and fruit-forward flavors come from malolactic fermentation, which converts malic acid into a gentler lactic acid. Unoaked Chardonnays are crisp and medium-bodied, while oaked bottles are fuller-bodied and have notes of vanilla and toasted oak.
For a rich oaked chardonnay, try the Sunny Farm Chardonnay, which offers front notes of Golden Delicious apples and ripe peach. Whether served on its own or paired with food, this is the perfect sipping wine after a long day.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc originated in France, though it is now produced in over 30 countries. The crisp, vibrant acidity makes this drink a perfect pair with a light seafood dish such as grilled white fish or a softer goat cheese.
The Stonewall Sauvignon Blanc from Wine Cellar Group features delectable aromas of passion fruit and gooseberry. Mineral notes and chopped herbs create a long, vibrant finish that leaves you wanting another sip.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is widely cultivated in regions of France, Germany, Italy, and the United States. The refreshing acidity and subtle fruity notes pair beautifully with a light pasta dish or summer salad.
Our Vina Baccana Pinot Grigio has been a massive customer favorite for years. With hints of almond, spice, and stone fruit, this delicate sip has a tongue-tingling finish of lemon zest and pear.
Riesling
Riesling, originally from Germany, is a highly aromatic wine with high acidity. This white wine can range from bone-dry to delectably fruity, making it easy to find one that suits your palate.
The Tussok Jumper Riesling from our store is crafted from grapes grown in western Germany, creating a refreshing, crisp wine with fruity and floral aromas. Enjoy a light glass while relaxing at home or with your favorite meal.
Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc is a versatile sipping wine that comes in both fruitier and drier flavor profiles. The high acidity complements the flavors of apple and honey to create depth and complexity. This makes it a great match for pork dishes or rich seafood, such as lobster.
Your nose will pick up expressive notes of peach, citrus, and jasmine in our Stellenrust Heritage Collection Chenin Blanc. Fabulous fruits and tangy acidity dance across the tongue partnered with a refined shellfish meal.
Moscato
If you’re looking for a fruity white wine that’s light and easy to sip, the Moscato is the bottle for you. It originated in Italy, and it comes in a full range of floral and fruity flavors. Pair it with light pastries or Pad Thai for a mouth-watering experience.
Try our Mi Amore Sparkling Moscato and experience a party of apricot, honeysuckle, and peach with a juicy finish. With a sparkling finish, this white wine will leave you with a delicate and refreshing taste.
How To Choose White Wines
With so many options, how do you pick a bottle to try? Think about wines you’ve tried and loved in the past. Did you prefer drier or fruitier options? Choose a bottle that fits your flavor profile and pairs well with your occasion. If you plan to enjoy it with your favorite meal, look for a white wine that pairs well with the meal and the vibes of the day.
If you’re looking to step outside your comfort zone, consider attending a local wine tasting. Our Wine Cellar Group stores offer tasting experiences to help expand your palate, and our staff can provide recommendations based on your preferences. Go ahead—try something new! You might just discover your next favorite wine.
White Wine FAQ
What are the major types of white wine?
The most popular types of white wines include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Chenin Blanc, and Moscato. Each has a distinct flavor profile, ranging from fruity to dry.
Which white wines are dry?
Dry white wines have a high acidity level and less fruity notes, creating a crisp and tantalizing taste. The most popular types of dry white wine include Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
Which white wines are sweet?
The residual sugar left from fermentation creates a lighter, fruitier flavor that’s easier on the tongue. Common types of sweet white wine include Pinot Grigio and Moscato.
Should white wine be served chilled?
White wine that’s served too cold can taste flat and one-note. However, being too warm can leave you with a tired and murky flavor. The ideal serving temperature for white wine is between 49 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Think like Goldilocks—serve it not too cold, not too warm, but just right.
How long does white wine last in the fridge?
Once you pop the cork, you can store your wine in the fridge for around 3 to 5 days. The flavor will start to change the longer it sits, so keep that in mind when you serve it.
What type of glass is best for drinking white wine?
Since white wines don’t need to breathe or aerate as much as reds, you don’t have to worry as much about having a wide surface area in your serving glass. Traditional white wine glasses have a taller stem and are more narrow than red wine glasses. The classic wine glass with a wide base and narrow top also works perfectly for any white wine you serve. This is so the glass captures the aromas of the wine.
Comments (0)
There are no comments for this article. Be the first one to leave a message!