While sommeliers have long had a secret crush on white wine, there has been a noticeable shift among wine consumers, including those over 50, from red to white wine. This trend reflects a deeper understanding of white wine’s diversity, the increasing sophistication of wine drinkers, and a growing preference for lighter wines.
Like red wine, white wine quality has never been greater, making this an exciting time to explore the category’s full potential. And white wine offers benefits that a red simply cannot: it won’t stain your teeth or clothes!
The seasonal delights of white wine
While you can drink red wine throughout the year, white wine is more versatile, both with and without food. Nothing beats a cool glass of white wine on a hot day by the pool or a glass of aged white on a chilly night by the fire. Many white grapes, such as Viognier, Riesling, or Godello, deliver complex, rich flavors that rival the best reds.
In the spring, Chablis and some Champagne pair perfectly with spring vegetables and seafood due to the distinctive salinity and green apple flavors.
During summer, Grüner Veltliner, with its spicy and citrus notes and remarkable balance, is a good partner for fresh vegetables and lighter dishes. Try a lovely Soave with notes of white melon and white peach to pair with shellfish and seafood.
When cool weather calls, a fuller-bodied white like a voluptuous Meursault, with its careful barrel fermentation, develops rich notes of toasted nuts and ripe pears. Its creamy texture complements fall vegetables, poultry, and lighter pork dishes.
An aged Savennières is a special treat for winter’s heavier dishes. The natural acidity of Chenin Blanc balances out the honey and cooked pear notes. This Loire Valley wine develops complexity over time, so drink it slowly to see how it develops.
Aged white wine: a special treat
Although most white wines are quickly consumed, some age as well as some red wines. Besides Savennières, White Burgundy, German Riesling, and some Champagnes develop remarkable complexity when aged.
While not for everyone, a well-aged López de Heredia Viña Tondonia Blanco is an example of this remarkable transformation. It shows notes of dried fruit, nuts, and subtle oxidation.
White wine and climate change
White wine production is emerging as a more sustainable solution to climate challenges. White grapes ripen earlier, allowing for more flexible harvesting and lower labor costs. They also require less water and have shorter production cycles, resulting in less energy consumption. White grapes also retain acidity better than red, which is crucial for balance in wine.
Producers like Josmeyer in Alsace and Nikolaihof in Wachau showcase how biodynamic farming can express extraordinary terroir while maintaining environmental responsibility.
A lighter choice for health-conscious consumers
Many wine consumers find red wine tannins too astringent, so white wines appeal to a broader audience because of their gentler profile: refreshing with less alcohol and weight. Well-made white wines can show incredible precision and delicacy. They refresh rather than overwhelm the palate.
The Mosel Valley’s Rieslings exemplify this approach, delivering remarkable complexity at lower alcohol levels while maintaining crucial acidity. Producers like Château Beaucastel demonstrate how extended aging can create rich, silky textures without relying on tannin extraction.
Cheers to white wine
Jump into a new adventure by exploring the benefits and pleasures of white wine. Expanding your palate increases your pleasure! Reach out to a local sommelier or retail wine shop to guide you and bring along a friend or two. Like all wine, white wine is to be shared and drunk in moderation.
Jeanne Savelle writes about wine for wineries, importers, and distributors. She has several certifications from The Wine Scholar Guild and WSET and is an ambassador for the Boisset Collection. Savelle has spent 30 years following the wine business around the world. You can learn more at: https://www.facebook.com/PortStVino, https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanne-savelle/, https://my.boissetcollection.com/j.savelle
