Introduction to White Wine

White wine has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with evidence of its production found in ancient civilisations across the globe. White wine has evolved into a diverse and sophisticated beverage. Today, it continues to play a significant role in cultural traditions, culinary experiences, and social gatherings worldwide.

The production of white wine typically involves harvesting white grape varieties, although some white wines are made from red grapes with minimal skin contact. The grapes are pressed, and the juice is fermented without the skins, resulting in a wine that ranges from pale straw to deep gold in colour. The winemaking process, grape variety, and terroir all contribute to the unique characteristics of each white wine.

The Diverse Spectrum of White Wine Varieties

Chardonnay: The Chameleon of White Wines

Chardonnay is often referred to as the chameleon of white wines due to its remarkable ability to adapt to different winemaking techniques and terroirs. This versatile grape variety can produce wines ranging from crisp and unoaked to rich and buttery. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, Chardonnay has found success in wine regions around the world, including Australia, California, and Chile.

At Cork Boutique Wines, we offer an exceptional selection of Chardonnays that showcase the grape's versatility. From the elegant 2021 Domaine Jean-Paul et Benoit Droin Chablis Grand Cru Vaudesir to the prestigious 2021 By Farr GC Chardonnay, our collection highlights the diversity of styles within this popular variety.

Riesling: From Bone-Dry to Lusciously Sweet

Riesling is a noble grape variety known for its ability to produce wines across the entire spectrum of sweetness, from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. Originating in Germany's Rhine region, Riesling is celebrated for its high acidity, expressive aromas, and ability to reflect its terroir. The grape thrives in cool climates and can produce wines with remarkable ageing potential.

Our Riesling collection at Cork Boutique Wines showcases the variety's range and complexity. From the crisp and mineral-driven 2020 G.D. Vajra 'Petracine' Langhe Riesling to the elegant 2021 Frankland Estate Isolation Ridge Vineyard Riesling, we offer Rieslings to suit every preference.

Riesling Style	Characteristics	Food Pairing Suggestions
Bone-dry	High acidity, citrus and mineral notes	Seafood, light salads
Off-dry	Subtle sweetness, floral and stone fruit aromas	Spicy Asian cuisine, soft cheeses
Sweet	Luscious sweetness, tropical fruit flavours	Desserts, foie gras

Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and Herbaceous

Sauvignon Blanc is renowned for its crisp acidity and distinctive herbaceous aromas. This grape variety originated in the Loire Valley of France but has gained immense popularity in New Zealand, particularly in the Marlborough region. Sauvignon Blanc wines are typically dry and refreshing, with flavours ranging from green apple and grass to tropical fruit and gooseberry.

Our Sauvignon Blanc collection features exceptional examples from various regions. The 2020 Domaine du Bouchot Pouilly Fumé Terres Blanches showcases the classic Loire Valley style, while New World expressions offer a different take on this versatile grape.

Chenin Blanc: The Versatile French Classic

Chenin Blanc is a highly versatile grape variety originating from the Loire Valley in France. Known for its high acidity and ability to produce wines in various styles, Chenin Blanc can be crafted into sparkling, dry, off-dry, and sweet wines. The grape is also widely planted in South Africa, where it's sometimes known as Steen.

We offer a range of Chenin Blanc wines that demonstrate the grape's versatility. The 2019 Domaine Belargus Savennières 'Rucheres' is an excellent example of a dry, terroir-driven Chenin Blanc from its spiritual home in the Loire Valley.

Grüner Veltliner: Austria's White Wine Gem

Grüner Veltliner is Austria's signature white grape variety, known for producing dry wines with crisp acidity, a distinctive white pepper note, and flavours of green apple and citrus. This versatile grape can produce light, easy-drinking wines as well as more complex, age-worthy examples.

Our collection includes the outstanding 2020 Prager Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Achleiton, showcasing the depth and complexity that Grüner Veltliner can achieve. This wine exemplifies the grape's ability to produce full-bodied, rich wines with excellent ageing potential.

Lesser-Known White Wine Varieties

Savagnin: The Jura's Hidden Treasure

Savagnin is a white grape variety that has found its home in the Jura region of eastern France. This unique grape is known for producing oxidative wines with distinctive nutty and spicy characteristics. Savagnin is the primary grape used in the production of Vin Jaune, a special wine aged under a layer of yeast called "voile," similar to the process used for Sherry.

At Cork Boutique Wines, we are proud to offer exceptional Savagnin wines that showcase the grape's distinctive qualities. The 2018 Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Savagnin (33 months 'Sous Voile') is a prime example of the oxidative style, with complex aromas of nuts, spices, and dried fruits. For those interested in exploring the pinnacle of Jura winemaking, we also offer the rare and coveted 2013 Domaine de la Borde Arbois Vin Jaune.

Gewürztraminer: Aromatic and Distinctive

Gewürztraminer is an aromatic white grape variety known for its intense perfume and distinctive lychee, rose petal, and spice notes. Originally from the Alto Adige region of northern Italy, Gewürztraminer has found success in cooler climate regions around the world, particularly in Alsace, France.

While our current selection of Gewürztraminer is limited, we occasionally feature exceptional examples of this aromatic variety. Gewürztraminer wines can range from dry to sweet, with the grape's naturally low acidity and high sugar content often resulting in off-dry to sweet styles. These wines pair beautifully with spicy Asian cuisine and strong, aromatic cheeses.

Regional White Wine Specialties

Chablis: The Pure Expression of Chardonnay

Chablis, located in the northernmost part of Burgundy, France, is renowned for producing some of the world's purest expressions of Chardonnay. The region's cool climate and unique Kimmeridgian soil, composed of limestone and fossilised oyster shells, contribute to the wines' distinctive mineral character and crisp acidity.

Our Chablis collection at Cork Boutique Wines features exceptional examples from top producers. The 2021 Domaine Jean-Paul et Benoit Droin Chablis showcases the classic Chablis style with its steely minerality and citrus notes. For those seeking a more premium experience, the 2021 Domaine Jean-Paul et Benoit Droin Chablis Grand Cru Vaudesir offers a complex and age-worthy expression of top-tier Chablis.

Sancerre: The Loire Valley's Sauvignon Blanc

Sancerre, located in the eastern Loire Valley, is famous for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc wines. The region's terroir, characterised by three main soil types (clay-limestone, flint, and gravel), contributes to the wines' complexity and mineral-driven profile. Sancerre Sauvignon Blancs are known for their elegance, crisp acidity, and expressive aromas of citrus, gooseberry, and flint.

While we don't currently have Sancerre listed in our collection, we offer excellent alternatives that capture the essence of Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc. The 2020 Domaine du Bouchot Pouilly Fumé Terres Blanches from the neighboring Pouilly-Fumé appellation shares many characteristics with Sancerre, offering a refined and mineral-driven expression of Sauvignon Blanc.

Muscadet: The Perfect Seafood Companion

Muscadet, produced in the western Loire Valley near the Atlantic coast, is made from the Melon de Bourgogne grape. These wines are known for their light body, high acidity, and subtle flavours of citrus and green apple, often with a distinctive saline quality that makes them the perfect companion for seafood.

A unique feature of Muscadet production is the "sur lie" ageing process, where the wine is left on its lees (dead yeast cells) for an extended period, adding complexity and a slight creaminess to the texture. While we don't currently stock Muscadet, we offer other crisp, seafood-friendly white wines that can serve as excellent alternatives, such as our selection of Chablis or Albariño when available. Check out our 2022 Domaine de la Pépière Muscadet Sèvre et Maine 'Clos des Briords' Vieilles Vignes, a boutique example of Muscadet.

Oak-aged vs. unoaked white wines

The use of oak in white wine production can significantly impact the final product's flavour profile and texture.

Oak-aged white wines

• Flavour Profile: Oak-aged white wines often have flavours of vanilla, butter, toast, caramel, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. These flavours come from the oak barrels, which impart compounds such as vanillin and lactones into the wine.

• Aroma: The aroma of oak-aged wines can include notes of toasted bread, smoke, and sweet spices.

• Texture: These wines tend to have a richer, creamier texture. The oak ageing process can enhance the mouthfeel, making the wine feel more full-bodied.

• Ageing Potential: Wines aged in oak often have a greater ageing potential due to the tannins and the micro-oxygenation that occurs through the porous wood. This can allow the wine to develop more complexity over time.

One excellent example from our collection is the 2021 Joseph Colin Chassagne Montrachet:

This Burgundian Chardonnay showcases the elegant integration of oak, with layers of citrus, stone fruit, and a touch of hazelnut. The oak ageing lends a creamy texture and added complexity to the wine.

Unoaked white wines

• Flavour Profile: Unoaked white wines emphasise the pure, natural flavours of the grape. Common flavor notes include citrus, green apple, pear, and melon. These wines maintain their fruit-forward characteristics without the influence of oak.

• Texture: Unoaked wines generally have a lighter, crisper texture. They are often more refreshing and zesty compared to their oak-aged counterparts.

• Ageing Potential: These wines are typically intended to be consumed young, as they do not have the added tannins from oak that can help with long-term ging. However, some high-acid unoaked wines can age well.

• Aroma: The aroma profile of unoaked wines is more focused on floral, fruity, and mineral notes.

Our 2022 Ciro Picariello Fiano di Avellino is a prime example:

This Italian white wine offers vibrant notes of pear, citrus, and white flowers, with a refreshing minerality that shines through due to its unoaked production method.

Explore our diverse white wine collection

Late harvest and dessert white wines

Late harvest and dessert wines are produced by allowing grapes to ripen longer on the vine, concentrating their sugars. These wines offer intense sweetness balanced by acidity, creating complex and indulgent flavours.

One standout dessert wine in our collection is the 2020 Dr H Thanisch Bernkasteler Doctor Riesling Auslese:

This German Riesling boasts luscious notes of ripe peach, apricot, and honey, with a vibrant acidity that keeps the sweetness in check. It's a perfect after-dinner treat or pairing with blue cheese.

Unique white wine production techniques

Skin contact white wines

Also known as orange wines, skin contact whites are made by fermenting white grapes with their skins, similar to red wine production. This technique imparts additional tannins, colour, and complexity to the wine.

While we don't currently have any skin contact whites listed, we're always exploring new additions to our collection. Keep checking back for these intriguing and unconventional white wines.

Sous voile ageing

This technique, common in France's Jura region, involves ageing wine under a layer of yeast, creating unique flavours reminiscent of sherry. Our 2018 Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Savagnin (33 months 'Sous Voile') is an excellent example:

This unique wine offers complex notes of nuts, spices, and dried fruits, with a distinctive savoury character from its extended ageing under a veil of yeast.

Food pairing with white wines

White wines offer versatile pairing options for a wide range of cuisines. Here are some suggestions based on wines from our collection:

Wine	Food Pairing
2021 Chardonnay by Farr	Roast chicken with herbs
2022 Ciro Picariello Fiano di Avellino	Seafood pasta
2018 Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Savagnin	Comté cheese
2021 Clemens Busch Pundericher Riesling Kabinett	Spicy Thai curry
2020 Domaine Belargus Anjou 'Quarts'	Grilled white fish

Serving and enjoying white wine

To fully appreciate the nuances of white wine, proper serving is key. Here are some tips:

1. Serve most white wines between 7-12°C (45-54°F)
2. Use tulip-shaped glasses to concentrate aromas. Pinot noir glasses are recommended for chardonnay
3. Allow the wine to warm slightly in the glass to release more aromatics
4. Swirl the wine gently to aerate and release its bouquet

White Wine Storage and Ageing

Cellaring White Wines: Which Varieties Age Well?

When it comes to white wine, many assume it's best enjoyed young.

While that's often true, some white wines can develop beautifully with age.

The key is knowing which varieties have the potential to improve over time.

Generally, white wines with high acidity, sugar content, or both tend to age well.

Some prime candidates for cellaring include:

• Riesling (especially German Rieslings)
• Chardonnay (particularly from Burgundy)
• Chenin Blanc
• Semillon

These wines can develop complex flavours and aromas over time, often becoming more honeyed and nutty.

However, it's important to note that not all wines within these varieties are suitable for ageing.

Factors like the winemaking process, vintage, and initial quality all play a role in a wine's ageing potential.

Tips for Proper White Wine Storage at Home

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of your white wines, whether you're cellaring them for years or just keeping them for a few months.

Here are some essential tips to ensure your white wines stay in top condition:

1. Temperature control: Aim for a consistent temperature between 10-15°C (50-59°F).

2. Humidity: Keep humidity levels around 70% to prevent corks from drying out.

3. Darkness: Store wines away from direct light, which can cause premature ageing.

4. Position: Store bottles horizontally to keep corks moist and prevent oxidation.

5. Vibration: Minimise vibrations, which can disturb sediment and disrupt the ageing process.

6. Ventilation: Ensure good air circulation to prevent mould growth.

Conclusion

The diversity of white wine varieties, styles, and regions means there's always something new to discover.

Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try lesser-known varieties or wines from unfamiliar regions. You might just stumble upon your new favourite bottle. Remember, the best way to learn about white wine is to taste widely and often (responsibly, of course).

Keep an open mind, trust your palate, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.

FAQs

1. What's the ideal temperature to serve white wine?

Most white wines are best served chilled, between 7-13°C (45-55°F). Lighter whites are usually served cooler, while fuller-bodied whites can be served slightly warmer.

2. How long does an open bottle of white wine last?

Generally, an opened bottle of white wine will stay fresh for 3-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator with a wine stopper or vacuum seal.

3. Can white wines be aged like red wines?

Yes, some white wines can age beautifully. Varieties like Riesling, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc often have excellent ageing potential when produced with that intention.

4. What's the difference between oaked and unoaked white wines?

Oaked white wines are aged in oak barrels, which impart flavours like vanilla, toast, and spice. Unoaked wines are typically fresher and fruitier, showcasing the grape's natural characteristics.

5. How Is White Wine Made?

White wine production involves crushing and pressing the grapes to extract the juice, which is then fermented without the skins. The fermentation process can take place in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels, depending on the desired style of wine.