White wine has been getting a lot of attention lately, and it might be wine lovers have been rediscovering its delicacy. I always hear that I bought 2 of the best white wine in California, they have nothing in common, one is crispy and refreshing while the other is bold and oaky, how can this happen. That’s very usual, however, what makes these whites stand out isn’t only their taste but also the story behind them. In this guide, you’ll learn about some of the most popular white grapes, how they’re made, and ways to get even more enjoyment and confidence while searching and buying white wine near you.
How is a White Wine Made?
The juice of almost all grape types is white, but the color and tannin found in wines come from contact with skins during fermentation. The more time your grape juice stays in this contact during this process, the darker red or pink it will become! But a white wine that’s pale in color or gold is produced without any contact with skin. According to famous critic and writer Jancis Robinson, white grape varieties are genetic mutations or “mutant grapes” lacking the compound called anthocyanin which contributes color! This explains that the white wine production process is almost the same as the red wine, except for this process.
Oak aging typically happens after primary fermentation has finished but isn’t always mandatory because oak flavor may shade the best white wines’ delicate flavors.
White Wine Varietals
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is by far the most appealing white wine grape. The grape is known for producing some of the best white wines in the world. According to famous wine writer Karen MacNeil in her Wine Bible book, Chardonnay is the Marilyn Monroe of white grapes. Often reflecting how skilled a winemaker was with their techniques while making chardonnay wine! For example, toast aromas for oak using or nutty flavors due to malolactic fermentation easily come out. It makes medium acidic, medium-bodied wines with aromas of green or yellow apple, tropical fruits, and pear aromas.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is from Bordeaux. It is produced with the same expectations worldwide; dry, crisp, mineral-driven aromatic white wines, but except for Sauternes and Balsac, they make exceptionally dessert wines with late harvest Sauvignon Blanc. Depending on the climate, it has a variety of flavors ranging from the green grass, citrus, green apple in cool climates to tropical fruits and floral aromas in warmer regions.
Riesling
Riesling is an aromatic grape that originates from Germany. It’s known for its floral aromas and acidic taste which should be balanced with sweetness if desired to make an ideal dessert wine.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is a grape that typically makes full-bodied wines. This white wine is the perfect combination of juicy acidity and mouth-watering flavors.
Screw Cap or Cork?
Screwcaps are a game-changer for anyone who loves wine. It is a great way to protect your wine from cork taint and oxidation. Its extremely low air permeability makes for safely storing bottles in the future too! Unfortunately, it is associated with low quality, which is totally wrong. Moreover, screw caps make opening and closing bottles easy with no need to use a wine opener. You can order the best screw-capped wines online by clicking here.
Food Pairing
Classical wined food matching is derived from simple to simple or complex to complex ideas. While you are buying your best wine online, you can see the food matching idea of every bottle. Even this is very helpful a few tips would make the dining experience to a higher point. For example, vegetable-based dishes, sweet potatoes, fish, pasta, and tapas are balanced well with chardonnay. Seafood like crab and lobster goes very well Sauvignon Blanc. If you are having spicy Asian food your wine should definitely be a Riesling. Pinot Grigio pairs well with salad, light chicken, and anti-pastas.
If you found this blog interesting, you should also check our article about Southern French White Wines.
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