There’s countless grape varieties in the world but focus on the 5 white classics- shall we? White wines are lighter and more refreshing than their red counterparts- and first in line and synonymous with white wine, is one considered the king of white grape varieties;
Chardonnay (Shar-do-nay)
From the burgundy region of France, yielding the world’s finest white wine, the name Chardonnay evokes images of high quality, power and finesse. Flavours that emanate from this full-bodied wine often described as “buttery” include vanilla, custard, green apple, tropical fruit, lemon and pineapple. These wonderful flavours and creamy, lush textures indeed do make for wine royalty. Its also called the Champagne grape as its the primary grape variety in the finest Champagnes. And Chardonnay isn’t Chardonnay without oak. Hence the best Chardonnay receives its resting days in traditional French oak barrels while less expensive ones merely soak in oak chips… The flavours imparted by oak give the wine its woody, smoky, spicy, or even nutty vanilla characters. Chardonnay flavours and scents are wondefrully rich and fruity.
Food pairings: buttery dishes, seafood, poultry and creamy pastas. Mild creamy cheese. Food with umami taste.
Sauvignon Blanc (Sow-vuh-nyon blongk)
Another classic favourite is the light-to medium-bodied, crisp and fruity Sauvignon Blanc. More on the dry side and slightly tart, it presents herbal and sometimes grassy characters with hints of lime, pear and grapefruit. More acidic than Chardonnay, it sometimes has spicy notes of nutmeg and clove and vanilla from oak aging. For a more subtle alternative that’s less acidic to Sauvignon Blanc try Sancerre.
Food pairings: creamy dishes, seafood, poultry, and salads.
Riesling (Rees-ling)
Much lighter in body than Chardonnay, but quite refreshing all-round. Rieslings are usually high in acidity, and can range anywhere from sweet to bone dry depending on the region and the winemaking. They are low to medium in alcohol content, and have a fruity taste with flavours of lemon, lime, pineapple and even apricot. The aromas often include green apple and pear. If you love Riesling then go ahead and try Moscato and Gewürztraminer.
Food pairings: fish (tuna and salmon), chicken, pork.
Chenin Blanc (Cheh-nuhn blongk)
Chenin Blanc is versatile in style and sweetness and has the ability to adapt to a wide variety of tastes. It can produce wines that are fresh and fruity, and when oaked can offer flavours that are similar to Chardonnay. Depending on the winemaking process, the wine can also range from dry to slightly sweet, with medium to high acidity. They can age to a beautiful deep golden colour, with aromas reminiscent of apples, pear, peach and honey. Oaked Chenin Blanc usually presents butterscotch, lemon curd, nutmeg and apple characteristics.
Food pairings: vegetable dishes, salads, cream-based chicken
Pinot Gris (Pee-now-gree)
Is it Pinot gris or do we call it Pinot grigio? In France it’s referred to as Pinot gris and in Italy its grown in the Lombardy region where it’s called Pinot grigio- which is the more popular of the two. The wines produced in these two countries are similar but slightly different, with Pinot grigio being lighter bodied and crisp with citrus flavours. Pinot gris is sweet and spicy, with rich textures and tropical fruit aromas. The wines produced by this grape are usually a beautifully deep golden colour because of the grape’s dark skin, and they’re wonderfully refreshing. Because of its low acidity and fresh floral aromas, this wine is easy to drink and a real crowd pleaser. I would personally recommend that you try this medium- to full-bodied wine if you’re just starting on your white wine discovery journey- you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Food pairings: Seafood, creamy pasta, salad, chicken
Wine will always vary depending on the region the grape is grown at and the winemaking processes used, so there are no hard set profiles, only general ones. The beauty of wine is that each varietal is beautifully unique, and they are all worth giving a try. So if you haven’t already, go on a discovery and find a white wine that suits your liking. And when you do, enjoy the journey and savour every sip, always in moderation!
Remember; good manners and good wine are timeless. Cheers to a life well-lived,
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