It is indeed possible to make white wine from black grapes. While it may seem counterintuitive, the color of wine is not determined by the color of the grapes used, but rather by the juice extraction process. If the juice is extracted and the skins are removed immediately, it is possible to produce white wine from black grapes. One famous example of this is Champagne, which is made predominantly from black Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes, along with Chardonnay grapes.
However, in practice, the majority of white wines are made from white-skinned grapes. This is because white-skinned grapes tend to have a more neutral flavor profile, with less tannins and less pigment in their skins. These characteristics are often desirable in white wines, as they allow for a crisp and refreshing taste.
When making white wine from black grapes, the winemaker must be careful to avoid any contact between the juice and the skins, as this would result in extracting color and tannins from the skins, leading to a rosé or red wine. This can be achieved through gentle pressing of the grapes and immediate separation of the juice from the skins.
The process of making white wine from black grapes requires a delicate and precise approach. The winemaker must ensure that the grapes are fully ripe, as under-ripe grapes can impart undesirable flavors to the wine. Additionally, the grapes must be handled gently during pressing to avoid any bruising or excessive extraction of color.
In my experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have come across a few white wines made from black grapes. One particular example that stands out is a white wine made from the Nebbiolo grape variety, which is traditionally used to produce red wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco. The white wine made from Nebbiolo had a unique character, with aromas of white flowers and stone fruits, and a delicate acidity.
While white wines made from black grapes may not be as common as those made from white-skinned grapes, they can offer a fascinating and distinct drinking experience. The key lies in the careful handling of the grapes and the extraction process to ensure that the resulting wine remains white in color and showcases the desired flavors and aromas.
While white wine is typically made from white-skinned grapes, it is indeed possible to make white wine from black grapes by immediately removing the juice from the skins. This process requires precision and attention to detail to avoid any color or tannin extraction. The resulting white wines can offer a unique and intriguing drinking experience, showcasing the potential of black grapes in a different light.