White wine is one of the most popular alcoholic drinks around the world with hundreds of white wine varietals available on the market. Before buying a bottle of white wine, you need to know some basic information about white wine varietals, including their origins and food pairings, since every white wine grape varietal is unique in own way. Here are the most popular white wine varietals in the world.
Chardonnay – Chardonnay is definitely one of the best white wine varietals in the world. The Chardonnay grape can be used for different wines, but the classic varietals are Champagne, Burgundy and Chablis. This grape is presented in few different styles of wine, from citrus, papaya, green apple, high mineral and dry to some new flavours such as baked apple pie. For best results, Chardonnay is aged in either new or old oak barrels and these wines are usually very wide bodied and rich in citrus flavours. Best food pairings: cheese, fish, chicken and fruits.
Riesling – Riesling is the most versatile grape varietal and is known for light bodied and high acid wines. This classic German grape originates from the Mosel and Rhine, but today, Riesling is grown in all wine regions around the world. The best Riesling wines from Germany are usually slightly sweet and with a steely acidity for flavour balance. Classic Riesling flavours feature intense notes of peach, citrus and apricot, as well as white floral notes. When it comes to food, Riesling white wines pair well with almost all foods. Best food pairings: Asian, Indian and Mexican cuisine, fish, tuna, chicken, pork dishes, apple and other fruit desserts.
Sauvignon Blanc – Sauvignon Blanc comes from the beautiful Loire Valley in Bordeaux, France. The Loire Valley and New Zealand are the two best producers of exceptional Sauvignon Blanc varietals, while Australian Blancs are lacking the fruit quality because of the warmer climate. As one of the most intense white wine varietals, Sauvignon Blanc wines have an intense character of herbal and citrus tones. To balance the citrus character of Sauvignon Blanc, French wine makers mix it with peach and apricot notes from Semillon. Best food pairings: seafood (crab, lobster, shellfish, etc.), poultry, pork, creamy dishes.
Pinot Grigio – Pinot Grigio is one of the world’s most popular white wine varietals, since it is grown in every major wine region in the world: France, Germany, Australia, USA, Italy, Australia, Chile, Ukraine, etc. However, it originates from Venezia, Italy, where it is extensively planted. Pinot Grigio is usually available for sale immediately after bottling, since it doesn’t get better with age. Its taste varies depending on where it is produced. Italian and German Pinot Grigio wines are dry and have a great acid bite. Medium bodied and with a mid-level acidity, Pinot Grigio are some of the most delicious white wines. Best food pairings: Thai and Chinese cuisine.