The Ultimate Guide to White Wine

The process of making white wine varies depending on the winemaker’s goals, but generally, it involves the following key steps:

1. Harvesting

Grapes are picked when they reach optimal ripeness. Timing is crucial as it affects the sugar, acidity, and flavour profiles of the finished wine.

2. Destemming and Crushing

Upon arrival at the winery, grapes are destemmed and crushed. This process extracts the juice while separating it from the skins and seeds.

3. Pressing

The crushed grapes are then pressed to extract the juice. Unlike red wine, the skins are not left in contact with the juice for an extended period, to avoid tannins and colour from the skins.

4. Fermentation

The juice is transferred to fermentation vessels, often stainless-steel tanks or wooden barrels. Yeast is added to convert the sugars into alcohol. The length and temperature of fermentation can vary, influencing the wine’s final characteristics.

5. Ageing

The wine may be aged for a period, either in stainless steel tanks, which preserve fruitiness, or in oak barrels, which add complexity and richness.

6. Filtration and Stabilisation

Before bottling, the wine is filtered and stabilised to remove any remaining particles and to prevent spoilage.

7. Bottling

Finally, the wine is bottled, sealed, and may be aged further before being sold.

White wine has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Here are some key milestones:

Ancient Beginnings

The earliest evidence of white wine production can be traced back to 6000 BCE in what is now Georgia. Wine became a staple in ancient cultures like Egypt and Greece, where it was often consumed mixed with water.

Roman Expansion

The Romans played a crucial role in the spread of viticulture, including the cultivation of white grape varieties. They documented grape-growing techniques and winemaking processes that have influenced modern practices.

Medieval Monasteries

In the Middle Ages, monasteries became the centres of viticulture, preserving grape-growing and winemaking techniques. It was a period of experimentation, leading to the development of new white wine styles.

The Age of Exploration

As European powers began to explore and colonise new lands, vines travelled with them. This led to the establishment of new wine regions, including those that would become renowned for white wine, such as parts of South Africa and New Zealand.

Modern Innovations

Technological advances in the 20th and 21st centuries, such as temperature-controlled fermentation, have enabled more consistent and diverse styles of white wine than ever before.

Chardonnay is one of the most versatile and widely planted white grape varieties in the world. Originating from Burgundy, France, it has found a home in nearly every wine-producing region, from California to Australia. The grape is like a blank canvas, taking on distinct characteristics depending on where it’s grown and how it’s made. In cooler climates, Chardonnay often has crisp, green apple and citrus notes. In warmer regions, it can be lush and tropical. Whether unoaked or aged in barrels, Chardonnay offers a range of styles from fresh and zesty to rich and buttery.

Sauvignon Blanc is a white grape variety originating from the Bordeaux region of France. Known for its green and herbaceous flavours, it thrives in both Old World and New World wine regions. In places like New Zealand’s Marlborough region, the grape takes on expressive notes of gooseberry, lime, and even tropical fruit. In its home territory of France, particularly the Loire Valley, it’s often more restrained with mineral and green apple characteristics. The grape is typically made into a dry, crisp wine, making it a popular choice for those seeking a refreshing, aromatic white.

Riesling is a white grape variety with German origins, particularly famous in the Mosel and Rheingau regions. It’s known for its high acidity and aromatic profile, featuring notes of green apple, peach, and often, a distinctive petrol aroma with age. Riesling wines can range from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, including the renowned late-harvest versions. The grape has also gained prominence in other parts of the world, such as Alsace in France and Clare Valley in Australia. Due to its acidity and flavour profile, Riesling is incredibly food-friendly and one of the most versatile white wines you can find.

Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris refer to the same grape variety but often indicate different styles due to regional influences. Pinot Grigio is most commonly associated with Italy and is typically light-bodied, crisp, and refreshing, with notes of green apple and pear. On the other hand, Pinot Gris, especially from regions like Alsace in France, tends to be fuller-bodied with richer flavours such as honey and spice. The grape is versatile and can produce a range of styles from dry to sweet. Regardless of where it’s grown, this grape variety is known for its easy-drinking appeal and food-pairing versatility.

Viognier is a white grape variety known for producing full-bodied wines with a rich and perfumed character. Originating in the Rhône Valley in France, it has gained popularity in other wine-producing regions, such as California and Australia. The grape is notorious for its aromatic complexity, often featuring notes of peach, apricot, and floral elements like honeysuckle. Viognier can be challenging to grow as it’s prone to low yields, but when managed well, it results in wines that are both aromatic and balanced, often with a touch of minerality.

Gewürztraminer is a white grape variety best known for its aromatic and flavourful wines, predominantly grown in regions like Alsace in France and parts of Germany and Italy. The grape produces wines that are highly aromatic, featuring notes of lychee, rose petals, and sometimes a hint of spice. It can be made in various styles, from dry to sweet, but it consistently offers a rich, almost oily texture. Due to its pronounced flavour profile, Gewürztraminer pairs well with spicy and aromatic cuisines, making it a favourite for food pairings.

Albariño is a white grape variety primarily grown in the Rías Baixas region of northwest Spain and also found in Portugal, where it’s known as Alvarinho. The grape is known for producing zesty, aromatic wines with high acidity and mineral qualities. Typical flavour profiles include notes of green apple, citrus, and sometimes a hint of peach or melon. The wines are generally best consumed young and are excellent with seafood, making them a go-to choice for dishes like oysters or grilled fish.

The region where a white wine grape is grown has a profound impact on the final taste of the wine. Here are some of the key regions known for their white wines:

Burgundy is a renowned wine region in eastern France, celebrated for its high-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. The region is divided into several sub-areas, including Chablis, Côte de Nuits, and Côte de Beaune, each with its unique terroir influencing the wine’s character. While red wines from Burgundy are highly regarded, the region’s white wines, primarily made from Chardonnay, are equally esteemed. These white wines can range from crisp and mineral-driven in Chablis to rich and complex in Meursault. The meticulous attention to detail and focus on terroir make Burgundy whites some of the most sought-after wines in the world.

The Loire Valley is a diverse wine region in western France, stretching from the Atlantic coast to the interior of the country. Known as the “Garden of France,” it produces a wide range of wine styles, but it’s perhaps best known for its white wines. Varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc thrive here, producing wines that range from dry and crisp to sweet and luscious. The region is divided into several sub-regions, including Sancerre, Vouvray, and Muscadet, each offering unique expressions of local terroir. Loire Valley whites are celebrated for their high acidity and often mineral-driven character, making them excellent food wines.

Alsace is a wine region located in northeastern France, bordering Germany. The region is known for its aromatic white wines, predominantly made from grape varieties like Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. Alsace has a unique terroir influenced by its location between the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine River, resulting in wines that are aromatic, dry, and highly expressive. The region follows a tradition of bottling wines by grape variety, making it easier for consumers to know what they’re getting. Alsace wines are celebrated for their high-quality and versatility in food pairing, especially with dishes that feature aromatic spices and flavours.

Germany is a key player in the world of white wines, particularly renowned for its exceptional Rieslings. The Mosel region, with its steep, slate-laden vineyards, produces some of the world’s most elegant and aromatic Rieslings, characterized by high acidity and mineral notes. Nahe, another standout region, offers wines with a balanced profile, combining the fruitiness of Pfalz and the minerality of Mosel. Other notable regions include Rheingau, known for its fuller-bodied Rieslings, and Baden, where you’ll find a variety of both red and white wines. Each German wine region offers its unique take on classic grape varieties, making the country a diverse and exciting landscape for wine enthusiasts.

Marlborough is New Zealand’s most well-known wine region, situated at the northeastern tip of the South Island. It has gained international fame primarily for its distinctive style of Sauvignon Blanc—vibrant, aromatic, and packed with flavours of citrus and tropical fruits. The region’s unique terroir, marked by well-drained soils and a sunny yet cool climate, is ideal for producing wines with high acidity and intense aromatics. While Sauvignon Blanc remains the star, Marlborough also produces noteworthy Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, among other varieties.

Veneto is a prolific wine region located in northeastern Italy, home to some of the country’s most famous wines like Prosecco, Amarone, and Soave. While it’s versatile in its wine production, white wines like Pinot Grigio and Soave stand out for their crispness and easy-drinking appeal. Soave, made from the Garganega grape, offers a range from light and floral to rich and complex, often with almond notes. The region is also famous for Prosecco, the sparkling wine enjoyed across the globe. With its varied climate and diverse soils, Veneto provides a wide spectrum of white wines suitable for various occasions.

Rías Baixas is a wine region in the Galicia area of northwestern Spain, best known for its exceptional Albariño wines. The region’s coastal influence, marked by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, gives the wines a distinct saline and mineral character. Albariño from Rías Baixas typically features high acidity along with aromatic notes of green apple, citrus, and sometimes stone fruits like peach. These wines are particularly prized for their ability to pair wonderfully with seafood, making them a go-to choice for dishes like oysters, clams, and grilled fish.

California is a powerhouse in the world of wine, offering a range of styles thanks to its diverse climates and varied terroirs. Napa Valley and Sonoma are well-known for high-quality Chardonnays, which can be buttery and oaky or lean and mineral-driven. Monterey, further to the south, also stands out for its cooler climate white wines, producing crisp and aromatic Chardonnays and Pinot Grigios. Other regions like the Russian River Valley and Santa Barbara contribute excellent Sauvignon Blancs and Viogniers. With a focus on innovation and quality, California is a leading force in global white wine production.

Reading a wine label can sometimes feel like decoding a foreign language. However, understanding a few key terms can help you make a more informed choice. Here are the main elements to look out for:

Light and Crisp Whites

Examples: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Albariño
Pairs Well With: Light foods like salads, seafood, and chicken dishes. The high acidity in these wines complements lighter fare.

Aromatic Whites

Examples: Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Muscat
Pairs Well With: Spicy and flavourful dishes like Thai curry or Indian biryani. These wines have a sweetness that can counteract the heat in spicy foods.

Rich and Creamy Whites

Examples: Chardonnay, Viognier, Marsanne
Pairs Well With: Cream-based dishes, lobster, or grilled chicken. The buttery texture of these wines matches well with richer foods.

High-Acidity Whites

Examples: Gruner Veltliner, Aligoté
Pairs Well With: Dishes with high acidity themselves, such as tomato-based meals or dishes with a citrus element.

Versatile Whites

Examples: Chenin Blanc, Semillon
Pairs Well With: A wide range of foods. Their balanced profile makes them an excellent choice for mixed platters and tapas.

Extra Tips

• Salty Foods: Pair well with high-acid wines, as the acid can balance out the saltiness.
• Sweet Dishes: Choose a wine that is sweeter than the food to avoid making the wine taste bitter.

Remember, these are guidelines and personal preference always plays a part. The best pairing is one you’ll enjoy. Cheers!