White wines are wines derived from various grape varieties. They are usually made from the skin and/or juice of grapes; their color range from yellow-gold, yellow-green, to straw-yellow. White wines are typically paired with meals that are lighter and the ruling that “white wines are best with white meats” is still followed up today.
It is said that white wines have more cardiovascular benefits than red wines and also have antioxidants. There are a lot of varieties of white wines present in the market. Let us discuss the popular whites that are usually present in Chicago wine cellars and wine menus of restaurants.
Chardonnay
Let’s talk about Chardonnay, the “King” of white wine. Chardonnay originated in Bourgogne, France. It is the most popular white dating back to the 1980s. It is the most important ingredient in making sparkling wines- especially champagnes. Chardonnay is best paired with salmon, grilled chicken, shellfish, and pasta with white sauce. It is said to be well-balanced in terms of taste.
It can be a bit sweet or fruity and sometimes has a hint of pear or apple flavor. If it is fermented in new oak barrels, a hint of buttery taste can be imparted into it. The top countries that grow Chardonnay vines are the USA, France, Australia, and Italy.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is acidic and crisp and is the lightest of all the white wines. It comes from a green-skinned grape that is grown in the Bordeaux region where it is blended with Semillon which is another type of white wine.
The taste of this wine usually depends on the climate. Its taste can be a bit citrusy and grassy. This is good to match seafood dishes and white meat. It also goes well with Chevre cheese and sushi.
Riesling
The last of the most popular and major types of white wine is Riesling. Riesling comes from the Rhine region in Germany. This wine is seldom oaked. In 2004, it was said to be the world’s 20th most grown variety. The character and quality of this wine are greatly influenced by the place where it originated.
In 2006, it was the variety that was mostly grown in Germany accounting for 20.8% of the world’s supply. Riesling is commonly grown in cold locations and regions. Other countries that cultivate this variety are Canada, South Africa, China, Ukraine, and many others.
In terms of taste, Riesling has a lighter taste than Chardonnay. It has a fresh apple aroma. This is best paired with pork, fish, and chicken. Its crispiness is a good pair with tuna and salmon. It is also good with some Japanese dishes.
Proper Wine Storage for White Wines
White wines are best served at a temperature of 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If you plan on preserving them, make sure to maintain a temperature of 52 to 57 degrees Fahrenheit in your Chicago wine cellar or wine refrigerated cabinet.
If you are just planning to store it up until it is consumed, for example, the day before a party, make sure that you maintain a temperature of 45 degrees Fahrenheit in your wine refrigerator. Remove wine from the fridge to warm it up a bit before serving it to your guests. Remember not to place it at an excessively cold temperature because it might flatten the aroma and vibrant flavors of the wine.
In terms of aging, white wines are not advised to be aged for a very long period of time. They are at their best when consumed at least two to three years from the year they originated. However, some white wines like Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauternes of high quality are good when aged.
Chicago custom wine cellars are the best place to store your white wines because they are specially designed to maintain a constant temperature and humidity levels. When built well with the right wine cooling system and wine cellar door, your wine collection will be safe and protected in your wine cellar.
For people who do not have the space and budget for a custom wine cellar, a wine refrigerator or wine cabinet can be used instead. These wine storage solutions can also provide the right conditions needed for the graceful aging of your wines.
If you have a small wine collection and you don’t have the budget to invest in a wine cellar or wine cabinet, you may opt for a wine rack. Wine racks must be placed in a cool, dark area to preserve your wines’ desirable characteristics.