Your Go To Grape Guide: A Primer on White Wines

Nothing says summer like a glass of cold white wine to the lips while you take in the Canadian outdoors. That’s why many young professionals (YPs) will order a refreshing glass of white wine or a white wine spritzer in the upcoming months after a game of golf, while on a patio with clients, or at an outdoor event, and opt to grab a bottle or two when cottage or BBQ-bound. But do you really know the difference between your beloved glass of Pinot Grigio and that go-to Sauvignon Blanc? Probably not. So, we thought we would put together a cheat sheet of our own to educate (but not to over-confuse in the process) on the true offerings of white wine. Below you’ll find an easy breakdown of six major varietals that will have the white wine appreciators loving it even more and those with a red wine-only policy discovering a new-found appreciation in everything a good grape can do for you. 

Chardonnay
Tastes and Aromas: Butter, citrus, baked apple

Why You Should Buy It:  If you are looking for a white wine with body, then Chardonnay is for you. Chardonnay is typically the heaviest white as it is rich, oaky and deliciously buttery. What’s great about Chardonnay is that it is versatile and pairs well with many food choices, from a formal turkey dinner to a casual movie night with buttery popcorn.

Gewürztraminer
Tastes and Aromas: Lychee, passion fruit, floral, spice

Why You Should Buy It: If you like spicy food, this varietal is a perfect pairing. Its crisp, fruity flavour will cut the spice and cool your mouth with a refreshing sweetness.  If you really want to impress someone, just tell them what you’re drinking… ga-VERTZ-trah-mee-ner. Very good. 

Sauvignon Blanc
Tastes and Aromas: Citrus, green apple, gooseberry, herbaceous

Why You Should Buy It: Sauvignon Blanc is considered to be a versatile wine and is known for being an excellent accompaniment to any meal. Sauvignon Blanc is planted around the world, which allows it to have many different expressions. For example, Sauvignon Blanc from France is known for its grassy characteristics and gooseberry notes while Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand has great acidity and wonderful fruit flavours. Our recommendation? Expose yourself to different Sauvignon Blancs and decide what works for your palate. Own it.

Moscato/Muscat
Tastes and Aromas: Apricot, floral, peach

Why You Should Buy It: If you like peaches, then this is your wine. This fruit-forward wine usually gives off some sweetness, which makes it a great beverage to be served chilled on a hot summer day. Recently, Muscat has taken on another name: Moscato. Moscato is very hot varietal right now and well worth a purchase. Consider yourself hooked up.

Pinot Gris/Grigio
Tastes and Aromas: Fresh pear, juicy melon, citrus, honeysuckle

Why You Should Buy It: It’s light, crisp, and pairs well with so many food options. Pinot Grigio can be a little acidic, so make sure that you’re not having an acid-heavy meal when you crack a bottle. This is Italy’s most popular white grape and since we hear they know a thing or two about wine, you should probably try it out and see if it suits your taste.

  

Riesling
Flavours: Apple, citrus, pineapple, apricot

Why You Should Buy It: Generally on the sweeter side, Riesling is Germany’s baby. Its best attribute is that it tends to go with everything better than anything. From shellfish to spicy food, Riesling will instantly upgrade any meal. Not sure what’s being served at the dinner you’re headed to? No problem, this floral number is often a great choice for most dinner experiences. 

Stay tuned for more from the Apothic Wines Discovery Hub, where you will always discover something notable.

 

Cover image from: phashiontherapy.wordpress.com