White wine

Le point de vue du Baroudeur

White wine is very varied, it can be light, fatty, aromatic or refreshing. White wine is made from white grapes such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin blanc, Riesling and other varieties. It can also be made from red grape varieties with white juice (like Champagnes). It has fruity, floral and sometimes herbaceous aromas, it can be dry or sweet depending on the region of production. White wine is perfect to accompany light dishes, seafood, richer dishes or cheeses. So, for a relaxed evening, we often let ourselves be tempted by a bottle of white wine.

Among the explorers of this white wine world, Chardonnay is the conqueror, versatile and robust, sailing from the shores of Burgundy to new lands around the world. It can be lively and chiseled when aged in steel, or rich and caressing when rested in oak barrels.

Sauvignon Blanc is the fresh wind that sweeps the hills. Originally from the Loire but also a star of New Zealand, it surprises with its lively notes of lime, passion fruit, and its sometimes grassy character that recalls a wild meadow in spring.

Let’s not underestimate Riesling, the agile mountaineer of white wine, climbing the steep slopes of German and Alsatian valleys. Its ability to capture the essence of place – stony minerality and floral elegance – makes it a favorite for those looking to discover the subtle nuances of wine.

And then there's Pinot Grigio, known in some circles as Pinot Gris, the chameleon of white wine that can be as simple and refreshing as a light breeze or as complex and textured as a richly patterned oriental rug.

A dry white wine is like a barren desert under a blazing sun. It leaves no trace of residual sugar in the mouth. All the natural sugar in the grapes has been converted to alcohol during fermentation, resulting in a clean and pure wine, often lively and sharp as a blade, capable of awakening the taste buds with its freshness.

In contrast, a sweet white wine is like a lush oasis in this desert. During fermentation, the process is stopped before all the sugar is converted to alcohol, leaving behind a rich, sweet nectar. These wines, often reminiscent of luscious fruit gardens, draped in honey, flowers, and sometimes a hint of spice, envelop the tongue like a gentle twilight softening the heat of the day.

For a lively, grassy Sauvignon Blanc, think light and fresh dishes. A zesty ceviche or a fresh goat cheese and herb salad are ideal companions for this white, bringing out the wine's freshness and citrus notes.

With a rich, buttery, oak-aged Chardonnay, head out to richer dishes: creamy white fish or poultry in a cream sauce. These pairings elevate the wine’s vanilla and ripe fruit flavors, for a perfect harmony on the palate.

A Riesling, whether dry or slightly sweet, is the perfect companion for spicy or sweet-and-sour dishes. Think Thai or Indian cuisine, where the spiciness of the dishes is softened by the Riesling's sweetness and chiseled acidity.

And for a Pinot Gris, with its delicate aromas of white-fleshed fruits, try seafood dishes or mushroom risotto. These dishes subtly complement the silky texture and richness of Pinot Gris white wine.

White wine

White wine

Le point de vue du Baroudeur

What are the main grape varieties used for white wines?

What is the difference between a dry white wine and a sweet white wine?

What foods can white wine be paired with?

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