White grape varieties
First of all, what is a varietal?It is simply a variety of grape. Therefore, as you can imagine, a grape variety is a decisive element for the identity of a wine.
It is indeed these that will give it its main aromatic characteristics. In addition, each grape variety having a unique structure (aromas, acidity, tannins, alcohol etc.), it is possible to create wines with a great aromatic diversity, thus adapting to all possible tastes.
Furthermore,grapes express different attributes depending on where they grow. Indeed, elements such as the soil, the climate, the yields practiced or the vinification carried out by the winegrower will be all factors that will have a decisive impact on their development and therefore on the wines they will produce.
In this guide, we will explore the main white wine grape varieties, evoking great classics such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc, Chenin or Riesling and Viognier, as well as others less renowned but very interesting varieties such as Muscat or Vermentino.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is one of the most famous white grape varieties in the world. Originally from Burgundy where it is still very well established, it is also grown in many other regions of France such as the Loire or Languedoc-Roussillon. This offers a wide variety of styles, ranging from dry, mineral wines to rich, buttery cuvées when aged in barrels.It will often exhibit aromas of citrus, white fruit and will have balanced acidity and a velvety texture.
Appellations such as Chablis, Meursault or Puligny-Montrachet are dedicated to it, for example.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a lively and particularly aromatic white grape variety. Originally from the Loire Valley where it is still very present, it is also cultivated all over the world (South Africa, Chile, etc.) This is distinguished by aromas of boxwood, citrus fruits, peach and sometimes even tropical fruits. It offers a lively acidity and a lot of freshness, thus pairing ideally with seafood and fish.
Appellations such as Sancerre or Pouilly-Fumé are perfect banners.
The Chenin
An emblematic grape variety of the Loire Valley, Chenin is recognized and adored for its great versatility. This makes it possible to produce a wide range of wines, ranging from dry whites to sweet wines, including sparkling wines. Capable of expressing a wide range of flavors, it regularly expresses aromas of quince, citrus, peach and apricot when vinified dry or in bubbles.
Sweet wines made from Chenin will evolve with delicious notes of candied fruit and honey. Note that Chenin is the unique grape variety of appellations such as Vouvray, Savennières or Montlouis-sur-Loire and is very present in Anjou-Saumur.
Riesling
Riesling is a white grape variety of German origin. In France, it is mainly grown in Alsace. Endowed with a high acidity, it is distinguished by its fruity aromas (citrus, peach, apricot), mineral, floral and sometimes also oily (hydrocarbons).
It is a noble variety mainly vinified as a single grape variety but can also be used in the composition of certain Crémants d'Alsace. On the most beautiful terroirs, Riesling is capable of offering sublime complexity and can be endowed with a remarkable capacity for aging. This one combines wonderfully with seafood and fish.
The Gewurztraminer
We immediately identify Gewurztraminer with Alsace. This emblematic grape of the region is easily recognizable thanks to its aromatic exuberance. It evolves into notes of exotic fruits such as lychee, mango, pineapple and also offers floral aromas (notably rose) or even spicy touches. This can be vinified as a dry, semi-dry or sweet white wine. It pairs ideally with foie gras as well as spicy and exotic cuisines.
Muscadet
Muscadet is an emblematic white grape variety of the Loire region. Almost exclusively planted in the vineyards of the Nantes region, Melon de Bourgogne (its other name) gives birth to dry, light, fresh and mineral white wines. It is distinguished by delicate aromas of citrus fruits, green apple and white flowers. It offers a lively acidity as well as a characteristic minerality that make it a perfect choice for lovers of refreshing white wines. Ideal pairings with fish and seafood!
Marsanne & Roussanne
If we associate these two grape varieties here, it is because they are very often blended because of their great complementarity. These varieties play an essential role in the Rhône Valley. La Marsanne is known for its silky texture and its aromas of white fruits, white flowers and almonds.
As for the Roussanne, it is distinguished by its generous substance as well as its great aromatic finesse offering notes of ripe white fruit as well as floral aromas. When coming from beautiful terroirs, the latter is capable of aging very well. Depending on the profile, these grape varieties can be paired with salads, fish and also white meats.
The Vermentino (or Rolle)
The Vermentino grape variety, also known as Rolle, is a variety very established in Corsica and Provence. Recognized for its ability to thrive in hot, sunny climates, Vermentino produces wines of great freshness and remarkable elegance. Its main characteristics include aromas of white flowers (honeysuckle, hawthorn), peach, apricot and citrus. A nice acidity compensates for its potentially generous body. The wines produced are perfect to accompany seafood, grilled fish or even summer salads.
Note that this can also be aged in barrels, taking on a gourmet and generous turn that goes best with white meats or fish in sauce. The AOC Patrimonio and Côtes-de-Provence in particular offer very fine expressions of this grape variety.
Muscat
Muscat is known and appreciated for its incredible aromatic expressiveness. This is indeed capable of creating wines with captivating aromas of fresh grapes, white flowers, citrus fruits, white fruits and honey.
Its main characteristic therefore lies in its richness in aromas, making it possible to produce dry white wines but also Vins Doux Naturels and even sparkling wines. In France, Muscat finds its place in different wine regions, notably in Alsace, in the Rhône Valley, in Languedoc-Roussillon and in Provence.
We can notably mention appellations such as Muscat de Rivesaltes, Muscat du Cap-Corse, Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise or even the IGP Côtes Catalanes where it is also present.
When vinified dry, it can go well with light dishes and aperitifs. When vinified in sweet, it will then be reserved for dessert. Note that Muscat can also be made into orange wine, as the Domaine des Schistes does for example in Languedoc!
You now know the main characteristics of the white grape varieties present in France and around the world. Now, all you have to do is go from theory to practice, which let's face it, is even more captivating!
Cheers!
The Illuminated Cellar
