Dry White Wines

There are many who swear by the dry, refreshing taste of dry white wines. There is a host of these wines to choose from, to relax you at the end of a long hot day at work. So, what are dry white wines? Dry white wines are made from white grapes that are dried till almost all the sugar content is converted into alcohol. Although, the usage of the word 'dry' indicates very low sugar content, dry white wines vary considerably in taste, depending upon the type of grapes and wine making technique used. For example, dry white wines that are made using ripe fruits taste sweeter and are less acidic than those made from less ripe grapes. Although, the most popular types originated in France and Germany, true types of these wines are produced in United States in the counties of California, surrounding the San Francisco Bay. New York, New Jersey and Ohio are some of the eastern states that are known to produce dry white wines of fine flavor.

Popular Varieties of Dry White Wines

Sauterne: Most wine lovers swear by the taste of Sauterne. Originally a type of French wine Sauterne is considered to be of the finest quality among the different varieties of dry white wines. The best among the Sauterne wines is the Chateau yquem. However, very small quantities of this wine reaches America because it is produced in very small quantities which almost the whole world bids for. Although, a type of dry wine, some Sauternes are quite sweet. The sweet varieties are popular among women because of their full, rich syrupy flavor. In America, California, notably the Livemore Valley, produces some of the finest quality of Sauterne.

Riesling: A native of Germany, Riesling wines are made from the Riesling variety of grapes that are grown in the Rhine and Moselle river valley. Riesling wine can be made over a wide range of flavor from dry to sweet and can be light to full bodied. While the German variety of Riesling wines are more tart and have a grapefruit like flavor, the ones produced in California tend to be dry and have a melon like flavor. The popularity of this type of dry white wine is on the rise due to its refreshing taste and food pairing versatility. This German wine goes well with Oriental dishes as well as with sea food. It is one of the very few wines that also tastes good with chocolate. This variety of wine is available in a number of flavors ranging from fruity, floral, musk and honey, as well. One important point to be kept in mind about Riesling is that it should always be served cold.

Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp, refreshing wine with notable acidity, Sauvignon Blanc originated in the Loire Valley of France. However, the Malborough region of New Zealand has taken this wine to new levels of popularity by producing wines of tropical fruits and gooseberry flavors. However, most typically the Sauvignon Blanc is a dry white wine with herbaceous qualities. Sauvignon Blanc is again a versatile drink as far as food pairing is concerned. It is a great choice for appetizers like vegetable dishes or dips and fragrant salads. What's better about Sauvignon Blanc is, that it isn't a very expensive variety of wine and also comes in a wide range of flavors.

Chardonnay: This is certainly the king of the various types of white wines. It is made from the Chardonnay grapes that is used in the ubiquitous champagne. Although, its homeland is the cooler regions of the Burgundy, it is now also grown in the warmer climates of the New World like Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Since, in cooler climates Chardonnay gets longer growing time they have subtle overtones. However, those grown in warmer climate have fuller taste and wide range of flavor. This wine is not very versatile as far as food pairing is concerned. However, it goes well with poultry or sea food like lobster and also with dishes made from light red meat. Despite being one of the most popular dry white wine varieties, Chardonnay is not a rich man's wine.

There are other varieties of dry white wines like Chablis, Moselle, Pinot Gris and more. Wine has always been a part of celebration. What makes dry white wines popular is that these are refreshing wines and come in a wide variety of flavors.