Trying to figure out which white wine to pick up for your next get together or dinner party? Or maybe you’re just starting to get interested in wine and aren’t sure which white wines you prefer? Even if you have a limited budget, there are plenty of white wines that you can buy on a budget.
Here’s a handy guide to help introduce you to some of the world’s most popular white wines that are largely considered the best for drinking. You might have to try out a few to find your absolutely favourite, but there’s no doubt that you’ll find the best white wine to drink below.
1. Oaked chardonnay
Without a doubt, Chardonnay is the most popular white wine on the planet. This makes it a good place to start if you’re just beginning your journey of discovery with white wine.
Although not everyone likes the oaked version, it is definitely worth trying because those who like it, really like it. Oaked chardonnays are often described as having rich vanilla flavors and a luscious, round feeling in the mouth.
2. Unoaked chardonnay
If you try the oaked chardonnay and aren’t a fan, you can move on the more generally pleasing unoaked version. Typically, these wines are either aged in stainless steel, or sometimes placed for a short time in neutral oak – meaning the oak barrel has been used so many times prior that it won’t impart its rich vanilla flavor in the wine.
These chardonnays don’t have any of the buttery flavours associated with their oaked counterparts, but rather boast delicious green apple, lemon and even pineapple flavours.
3. Sauvignon blanc
Another popular white wine is Sauvignon Blanc. Often described as “summer in a glass,” this wine originated in France but is now widely associated with New Zealand. It is fresh, bright, and contains a zippy acidity that makes it perfect for sipping on a hot day.
This might not be your cup of tea if you’re one to find the bite of a beverage like lemonade overpowering, but still might be worth trying out as some Sauvignon Blanc wines tend to feature more mellow grassy notes than aggressive acidity.
4. Pinot Grigio
Italy’s star when it comes to white wine, Pinot Grigio is another refreshing grape that offers plenty of citrus notes and tends to fall on the dryer end of the spectrum. The fact that it rarely tastes too sweet makes Pinot Grigio a great accompaniment for many different types of meals. Pairing especially well with seafood, if you’re trying to decide which white wine to match with a lighter dish you’ve ordered at a restaurant, Pinot Grigio is almost always a good bet.
5. Dry Riesling
Depending where in the world you live, the Riesling you’re most familiar with could be quite different from someone a few countries over. Although often thought to be very sweet, some of the top Riesling in the world, which come from Germany and Alsace, are in fact bone dry. If that is what you’re looking for, then be sure to double check the country of origin and read the label carefully.
A truly delightful wine to sip on, dry Rieslings have plenty of lemon, lime, pineapple and apricot flavours, but none of the syrupy sweetness that many wine drinkers can’t stand.
6. Sweet Riesling
If you are after a pronounced sweetness though, Riesling could also be the ticket for you. Just ensure that you’re careful to select a variety offering this characteristic. Although you will find sweet Rieslings hailing from Germany, they’re more likely to be American in origin. In the event that you can only find dry Riesling and are looking for something on the sweeter side, opt for a Moscato or Gewürztraminer and that should hit the spot.