What are white wines?

White wines are a category of wines characterized primarily by color, ranging from straw yellow to golden for most varieties and from powdery to a deeper pink for Pinot Gris. They are produced from white grapes. However, they can also be made from black grapes, as long as the winemaking is done without skin contact, the element that gives the wines their red color.

Characteristics of white wines

The characteristics of white wines are defined through a combination of factors that deeply influence their taste, aroma and structure. These wines are known for their freshness and liveliness, resulting from good acidity, which is a defining characteristic of many whites. This acidity imparts a fresh mouthfeel and makes these wines particularly suitable for pairing with different types of food.
At the aromatic level, white wines can exhibit a wide range of aromas. These can range from fruity and floral notes, such as apple, pear, citrus, peach, white flowers, and yellow flowers, to more complex nuances of minerals, herbs, spices, notes of pastry and baking, and, in some cases, influences from aging in wood such as vanilla or toast.
The structure of white wines varies greatly depending on grape variety, climate, soil type and winemaking techniques. Some white wines are light and refreshing with low aromatic complexity, ideal for drinking young. Others may have more complexity and structure, sometimes with some body, due to both the grape variety and viticultural and winemaking techniques such as cold or hot maceration or aging.

How to pair a white wine

Pairing a white wine with food depends on the specific style of wine and its complexity of flavors. In general, white wines pair well with foods that complement their freshness, acidity and flavor profile.
For light and fresh white wines, characterized by higher acidity and fruity or floral notes, we tend to choose similarly light foods. These wines are ideal with fish dishes, seafood, light salads and vegetables, where the acidity of the wine balances with the freshness of the ingredients and can mute the richness of light sauces or oil-based dressings.
Fuller-bodied and more complex white wines, which may have more intense aromas and a richer structure due in part to aging in wood, pair well with foods that have a certain richness of flavor. These wines can accompany chicken, pork, or even less intense red meat dishes, as well as dishes with creamy sauces or cheeses. They can also pair with exotic or spicy dishes, balancing the warmth of the spices with their richness.

How to choose a white wine

Choosing a white wine is a process that can be influenced by several factors, and knowing a few key aspects can help you make an appropriate selection.
First, it is important to consider the occasion and personal preferences. If you are looking for a wine to pair with a specific meal, it is helpful to think about the flavors of the dish and choose a wine that can complement or balance them. For example, a light, fresh wine can accompany light dishes such as salads or seafood, while a fuller, richer wine may be ideal for more structured dishes.
Personal taste profile also plays a key role. Some people prefer dry wines with high acidity and fruity or floral notes, while others may enjoy sweeter or more aromatic wines.

How to store white wines?

The storage of white wines requires attention to several factors to maintain their optimal qualities. Proper white wine storage relies on the balance of temperature, light, humidity and location.
Temperature is crucial in the storage of white wines. These wines should be stored in a cool environment with a constant temperature, preferably between 12 and 18 degrees Celsius. Temperature swings can accelerate the aging of the wine or ruin it. It is recommended to store white wine bottles horizontally. This helps keep the cork moist, preventing it from drying out and compromising the bottle seal, which could lead to oxidation of the wine.
Exposure to light, especially direct sunlight or bright light sources, can negatively affect the quality of the wine. Light can lead to unwanted chemical reactions within the wine, altering its flavor. For this reason, white wines should be stored in a fairly dark place or under dim lighting.
Humidity is another important factor. An environment with controlled humidity helps maintain the integrity of the cork, preventing it from drying out and allowing air to enter the bottle, oxidizing the wine. At the same time, excessive humidity can lead to mold growth. A humidity level between 60 percent and 70 percent is generally considered ideal.