White wine is typically made from “white” grapes, which are actually green or yellow in color. These grapes include popular varieties such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. The color of the wine comes from the juice of these grapes, which is usually clear or slightly yellow. However, it's important to note that some white wines can also be made from grapes with colored skin, as long as the resulting juice or wort is not stained.
One example of this is Pinot Noir, a red grape variety that is commonly used to produce champagne. While Pinot Noir is typically associated with red wine, it can also be used to make white wine if the skins are carefully separated from the juice during the winemaking process. This allows the winemaker to extract only the clear juice, resulting in a white or “blanc de noirs” wine.
In my experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have encountered various white wine grapes that offer unique flavors and characteristics. For instance, Chardonnay grapes are known for their versatility and can produce a wide range of styles, from crisp and unoaked to rich and buttery when aged in oak barrels. Sauvignon Blanc grapes, on the other hand, often exhibit vibrant acidity and refreshing citrus or tropical fruit notes.
Riesling grapes are highly aromatic and can produce wines that range from bone dry to lusciously sweet, making them incredibly versatile for pairing with a variety of dishes. The floral and fruity aromas of Riesling are particularly enticing, and the balance of sweetness and acidity adds complexity to the wine.
When it comes to white wine production, winemakers carefully select and cultivate grape varieties that are well-suited to their specific region's climate and soil conditions. This ensures that the grapes achieve optimal ripeness and flavor development. In some cases, winemakers may even blend different grape varieties to create a more complex and balanced white wine.
It's worth noting that the taste and characteristics of white wine can also be influenced by factors such as the winemaking techniques used, including fermentation temperature, aging in oak barrels, and the use of lees (yeast sediment) for added texture and flavor.
White wine is primarily made from green or yellow grapes, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. However, some white wines can also be produced from grapes with colored skin, like Pinot Noir. The choice of grape variety and winemaking techniques contribute to the wide range of flavors and styles found in white wine. As a sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the diversity and complexity that white wine grapes bring to the world of wine.