The Perfect White Wine for the Occasion

In the heat of summer, few beverages are as refreshing a chilled, crisp glass of white wine. Different occasions call for different wines, though, so let us help you find the perfect pairing with this comparison from dry to sweet.

Italian Pinot Grigio: Bone Dry, Light & Zesty

Minerally and dry, this style of wine is most famously from the northern parts of Italy. The mountainous landscape ensures that the grapes keep their high acidity, resulting in an exceptionally dry and refreshing white that is aged in stainless steel tanks rather than oak barrels. Pairs well with fish, shellfish, game birds, pork, veal, Thai dishes, or Chinese food.

Chardonnay: Bold & Dry

This wide-bodied, velvety wine—one of the most popular in the world—also boasts rich citrus flavors. Try an oaked variety for a smooth, buttery taste with hints of vanilla, caramel, toffee or honey. Pairs well with fish, shellfish, poultry, veal, pork, cream sauces, egg dishes or a variety of vegetables and vegetarian dishes.

Sauvignon Blanc: Dry & Herbaceous

This traditionally French wine offers a different set of flavors than most whites, characterized by green and herbaceous notes like bell pepper, jalapeño, gooseberry and grass in addition to traditional hints of lime or peach. In recent years, it’s become one of the top imports from New Zealand, particularly from the Marlborough region. A versatile white wine, it pairs well with seafood, poultry and salads.

American Pinot Gris: Medium Dry

While Pinot Grigio originates in Italy, a range of fruit-driven Pinot Gris varieties are produced in the United States. Look for hints of lemon, yellow apple and white peach in this less acidic, medium-dry white wine. Pairs well with shellfish, chicken, spicy sausage, or vegetarian dishes. (You can also try sweeter varieties of Pinot Gris from the Alsace region of France.)

Riesling: From Bold & Dry to Light & Sweet

An incredibly diverse wine, Riesling ranges from bone dry to surprisingly sweet. Auslese, Spätlese and Kabinett varieties are typically on the sweeter end thanks to late-harvest fruit. Dive into the complexities of Riesling wines with this blog post. Pairs well with shellfish, chicken, pork, light cream dishes, Asian dishes, light curries or smoked fish.

Moscato: Light & Sweet

Known for its sweet flavors of peach, orange blossom and nectarine, Moscato wine is crisp and refreshing. Varieties include sparkling Moscato d’Asti, still Moscato and an oaked dessert Moscato. Pairings depend on which type of Moscato you choose; many are good all on their own. Considering pairing its light, sweet flavors with bold and spicy Asian cuisine.

Want to learn about even more white wines? Check out this detailed information from WineFolly.com. Stop by New Castle Liquors soon to pick out your summer whites!