Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Wine 101: White Wines

White Wines for the most part are appreciated for their light, subtle favors.  They tend to not be as overpowering as the reds so they are often easily accessible.

As you sample white wines, and reds as well, note the flavors and aromas identified.  Wine tasting is about enjoying a sensory experience.  Make a point of trying several of the popular white wine varieties below:

Chardonnay is a versatile wine grape whose flavor and aromas are easily influenced by where it’s grown and how it’s made.  Chardonnay grows well in Burgandy, France and cool coastal area of California. Favorite with seafood.

Riesling is a crisp, clean wine with green apple, pear and lime flavors.  With age, Riesling takes on honey flavors.  Riesling grows well in Germany, the Alsace regions of France, Finger Lakes region of New York, and parts of Australia and Washington State.  Pairs well with spicy foods, poultry and pork.  Try with Thai food.

Pinot Gris is made from grapes that generally produce different styles of wine depending on where grapes are grown.  Pinot Gris grows well in the Alsace region of France, Oregon and New Zealand.  The Italian style, Pinot Grigio, tends to be fresh, crisp and refreshing.  Sample either with seafood and pasta dishes, vegetarian food and poultry.

Sauvignon Blanc is a fresh, crisp, aromatic wine with grapefruit and grassy flavors.  This wine is the star of the Loire region of France.  It also shines in the Bordeaux region and New Zealand.  Sauvignon Blanc is a food friendly wine that goes well with seafood, poultry and vegetable dishes.
 
Common White Wine flavors & aromas
  • Citrus (lemon, orange, grapefruit, lime, nectarine)
  • Floral (honeysuckle, violets, jasmine)
  • Fruit (apple, pear)
  • Tropical (melon, pineapple)
  • Butter
  • Honey
  • Herbaceous (grass, herbs)
  • Earthy

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