Wine is incredibly fascinating due to its highly complex flavour profiles that can be difficult to understand. White wines, in particular, often get a bad reputation for being “watered down” or “bland”. But, when it comes to choosing a good white wine, there are certain things you can look for to ensure that you’re getting a high-quality bottle.
Colour
The colour of white wine can be a significant indicator of its quality. A wine that is too pale is often an indication that it is not a full-bodied wine. On the other hand, a wine that is too dark might indicate that it is overripe or oxidised. The best white wines will usually have a pale straw colour.
Nose
The term ‘nose’ is often used when referring to the smell of a wine. But did you know that you can also use your nose to determine the quality of white wine? When smelling a white wine, take note of any fruity, floral, or citrus aromas. These are all indicators of high-quality white wine. If you don’t smell these aromas, the wine might be past its prime.
Taste
Of course, the best way to determine the quality of white wine is to taste it. When tasting white wine, pay attention to the body, acidity, and sweetness. An excellent white wine will have a well-balanced refreshing taste that matches its crisp aromas. If the wine tastes too sweet or too acidic, it might indicate that it is not a high-quality wine.
Crafting Process
Premium white wines are made with great care and attention to detail. To ensure that you’re getting a good white wine, it is essential to research the winemaking process. Find out how the grapes were grown and harvested and what kind of barrels were used for ageing. All of these factors can influence the quality of the final product.
You’ll want to consider white wines that have undergone minimal intervention during the winemaking process. This means that the grapes were grown in ideal conditions and that the wine was aged in high-quality barrels. These wines may sometimes come with a higher price tag, but they are also more likely to be of higher quality, adding to the enjoyment of your wine-drinking experience.
Pairing
White wine is often seen as the most versatile option when it comes to food. This is because it can be paired with a wide variety of dishes, from light appetisers to hearty main courses.
While premium white wines may be considered excellent on their own, failure to pair any given wine with a dish that compliments its flavours can result in a less than enjoyable experience. When in doubt, try to match white wine to the dish you are cooking based on its weight. Heavier white wines like Chardonnay pair well with more decadent dishes (think cream-based sauces), while lighter white wines like Sauvignon Blanc are best suited for lighter fare (think salads and seafood).
Get the Best White Wine for You
Now that you know how to differentiate between premium and sub-par white wine, it’s time to find the best one for you. Consider what kind of flavours you prefer and what dishes you’ll be pairing it with. With so many delicious options out there, it’s sure to be easy to find a white wine that you’ll love.
