White wine, a refreshing and versatile beverage, holds a prominent place in the world of viticulture. Its diverse characteristics, ranging from crisp and dry to rich and sweet, are reflected in the myriad of names it goes by. However, understanding what a white wine is called goes beyond simply knowing the grape varietal. It involves exploring various factors, including the grape, the region, the style, and even the brand.
The Foundation: Grape Varietals and White Wine Names
The most fundamental way to identify a white wine is by its grape varietal. Many white wines are named directly after the grape from which they are made. This is common, especially in New World wine regions like the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.
Popular White Grape Varietals and Their Wines
Chardonnay: Widely planted across the globe, Chardonnay is a cornerstone of white wine production. Wines made from Chardonnay can vary dramatically depending on the climate, soil, and winemaking techniques employed. From the lean, mineral-driven Chablis in France to the opulent, oaky styles of California, the versatility of Chardonnay is remarkable.
Sauvignon Blanc: Known for its vibrant acidity and herbaceous aromas, Sauvignon Blanc is another popular choice. Common tasting notes include grapefruit, gooseberry, and grassy undertones. This grape thrives in regions like the Loire Valley in France (Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé) and Marlborough in New Zealand.
Riesling: Aromatic and age-worthy, Riesling boasts a high level of acidity and a spectrum of sweetness levels. Its characteristic aromas often include petrol, honey, and stone fruit. Riesling finds its ideal home in Germany, particularly in the Mosel region.
Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris: This grape, known as Pinot Grigio in Italy and Pinot Gris in France, offers a range of styles from light and crisp to richer and spicier. Italian Pinot Grigio is often light-bodied and refreshing, while Alsatian Pinot Gris tends to be fuller-bodied and more complex.
Gewürztraminer: This aromatic grape produces wines with intense floral and spicy aromas. Lychee, rose petals, and ginger are common descriptors. Gewürztraminer is particularly successful in Alsace, France.
Moscato: Known for its sweet and fruity character, Moscato is often associated with sparkling wines. Peach, apricot, and orange blossom are typical aromas. Moscato d’Asti, from the Piedmont region of Italy, is a popular example.
Beyond the Big Names: Exploring Less Common Varietals
While the above grapes are widely recognized, numerous other white grape varietals contribute to the diversity of the white wine world. Consider exploring wines made from grapes like Viognier (aromatic and floral), Albariño (crisp and citrusy), Grüner Veltliner (peppery and refreshing), and Chenin Blanc (versatile and age-worthy).
The Influence of Region: Appellation and White Wine Names
In many Old World wine regions, particularly in Europe, white wines are often named after the geographical area where the grapes are grown. This reflects the importance of terroir, the unique combination of soil, climate, and topography that influences the character of the wine. Appellation systems regulate the production of wine within specific regions, ensuring certain standards of quality and style.
French Appellations and White Wine Names
Bordeaux: While Bordeaux is primarily known for its red wines, the region also produces dry white wines, often blends of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. These wines are typically labeled with the Bordeaux appellation.
Burgundy: Burgundy is famous for its Chardonnay-based white wines, especially those from Chablis, Côte de Beaune, and Mâconnais. The wines are generally labeled with the specific appellation, such as Chablis or Meursault.
Loire Valley: This region produces a wide array of white wines, including Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, Chenin Blanc from Vouvray and Montlouis, and Muscadet from the Pays Nantais. The wines are often labeled with the specific appellation.
Alsace: Known for its aromatic white wines, Alsace labels wines by grape variety, but the regional appellation Alsace will always be present.
Italian Regions and White Wine Names
Veneto: The Veneto region produces a variety of white wines, including Soave (made from the Garganega grape) and Pinot Grigio.
Friuli-Venezia Giulia: This northeastern region is known for its high-quality white wines, often made from indigenous grape varietals.
Campania: This region in Southern Italy produces Greco di Tufo, Falanghina, and Fiano di Avellino, all highly regarded white wines named after the grape and the region.
German Wine Regions and White Wine Names
Mosel: Famous for its Riesling wines, the Mosel region produces light-bodied, aromatic wines with high acidity. Wines are often labeled with the village and vineyard name.
Rheingau: Another important Riesling region, the Rheingau produces fuller-bodied and more structured Rieslings than the Mosel.
The Impact of Winemaking: Style and White Wine Names
The winemaking process significantly influences the style of a white wine. Factors like fermentation temperature, oak aging, and lees contact can alter the wine’s flavor, aroma, and texture.
Oaked vs. Unoaked White Wines
Chardonnay is a prime example of a grape that can be made in both oaked and unoaked styles. Oak aging can impart flavors of vanilla, butterscotch, and spice, while unoaked Chardonnay often showcases the grape’s natural fruit and mineral characteristics. The label may not explicitly state “oaked” or “unoaked,” but the wine’s description or tasting notes can provide clues.
Dry vs. Sweet White Wines
The level of residual sugar in a white wine determines whether it is dry, off-dry, or sweet. Dry white wines have very little residual sugar, while sweet white wines have a significant amount. Terms like “trocken” (Germany), “secco” (Italy), and “dry” (most regions) indicate a dry wine. Sweet wines may be labeled as “late harvest,” “dessert wine,” or with specific terms like “Sauternes” (France) or “Trockenbeerenauslese” (Germany).
Sparkling White Wines
Sparkling white wines are produced using various methods, including the traditional method (used in Champagne) and the Charmat method (used in Prosecco). Sparkling wines are labeled with terms like “Champagne,” “Prosecco,” “Cava,” or “sparkling wine,” along with indications of sweetness (e.g., “brut,” “extra dry,” “demi-sec”).
Brand Names and Marketing: Beyond the Grape and Region
Beyond grape varietals and regions, wineries often use brand names to identify their wines. Brand names can be a way to establish a reputation for quality and consistency. Sometimes, wineries will create unique names for their blends or signature wines.
Understanding White Wine Labels
Understanding white wine labels involves decoding the information presented, including the grape varietal (if present), the region of origin, the vintage (year of harvest), the alcohol content, and the producer’s name.
Decoding Specific Terms
- Reserve: While the term “reserve” doesn’t have a legally defined meaning in all regions, it generally indicates a wine that is considered to be of higher quality.
- Vieilles Vignes (Old Vines): This term suggests that the wine is made from grapes grown on older vines, which may result in more concentrated flavors.
- Estate Bottled: This indicates that the wine was grown, produced, and bottled on the winery’s property.
The Nuances of Blends: What to Call a White Wine Blend
Many white wines are blends of different grape varietals. The naming conventions for blends can vary depending on the region and the producer.
Common White Wine Blends
Bordeaux Blanc: A classic blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, often with a touch of Muscadelle.
Rhône White Blends: These blends can include a variety of grapes, such as Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier.
Labeling Blend Components
Some labels will list the percentages of each grape varietal in the blend, while others will simply state that the wine is a “white blend.” If a single grape makes up a significant portion of the blend (usually at least 75% or 85%, depending on the region), it may be listed on the label, even though other grapes are also included.
Conclusion: Navigating the World of White Wine Names
Understanding what a white wine is called involves considering a complex interplay of factors. The grape varietal, the region of origin, the winemaking style, and the brand all contribute to the name and identity of the wine. By learning about these factors, you can navigate the world of white wine with greater confidence and discover new and exciting wines to enjoy. Whether you prefer the crisp acidity of a Sauvignon Blanc, the rich complexity of an oaked Chardonnay, or the aromatic sweetness of a Moscato, there is a white wine out there to suit every palate. Learning the language of white wine names is the first step towards unlocking its secrets.
What factors influence the name of a white wine?
The name of a white wine is primarily determined by the grape varietal used to produce it. For example, a wine made predominantly from Chardonnay grapes will typically be labeled as Chardonnay. However, regional naming conventions also play a significant role, especially in Europe, where wines are often named after the geographical area where the grapes are grown (e.g., Sancerre, Chablis). This reflects the terroir, or the unique environmental factors that influence the grape’s characteristics.
Furthermore, winemakers may also use proprietary names or brands to distinguish their wines. These names can be chosen for marketing purposes or to highlight a specific style or winemaking technique. In some cases, a wine may be a blend of different grape varietals, and the label will indicate the blend or a specific name chosen by the producer. The legal regulations regarding wine labeling vary from region to region, further contributing to the diversity of white wine names.
Is “white wine” a specific type of grape, or does it refer to a category?
“White wine” is not a specific type of grape; instead, it refers to a category of wine made from grapes that are typically green or golden in color. The key distinguishing factor is the winemaking process. White wine is produced by removing the grape skins during fermentation, which prevents the wine from acquiring the tannins and pigments present in the skins, resulting in a lighter color and generally lighter body.
This category encompasses a wide range of grape varietals, each with its own distinct characteristics and flavor profiles. Popular white wine grapes include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Grigio (or Pinot Gris), and Gewürztraminer. Each of these grapes produces wines with unique aromas, flavors, and levels of acidity, contributing to the diversity within the white wine category.
What does the term “varietal wine” mean in the context of white wine?
A “varietal wine” in the context of white wine refers to a wine that is made primarily from a single grape varietal. Typically, regulations require that a certain percentage (often 75% or 85%, depending on the region) of the wine must be made from the grape named on the label. This allows consumers to easily identify and select wines based on their preferred grape.
The term “varietal” emphasizes the influence of the specific grape on the wine’s characteristics. For example, a Sauvignon Blanc varietal wine will generally exhibit grassy, herbaceous, or citrusy flavors, while a Chardonnay varietal wine may display flavors of apple, pear, or vanilla, depending on whether it has been aged in oak. Understanding the term “varietal” is crucial for navigating the world of white wine and making informed choices.
How are white wine names regulated in different regions?
The regulation of white wine names varies significantly across different wine-producing regions. In Europe, particularly within the European Union, Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) systems like Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) in France and Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) in Italy, heavily regulate what names can be used based on geographical location, grape varietals, and winemaking practices. These regulations aim to protect the authenticity and reputation of wines from specific regions.
Outside of Europe, regions like the United States, Australia, and South America have less stringent regulations regarding wine names. While varietal labeling is common, there is more flexibility in blending and using proprietary names. However, regulations regarding truth in labeling, such as accurate alcohol content and origin claims, still apply. This difference in regulatory approaches leads to a broader range of naming conventions and styles of white wine available globally.
What are some common types of white wine and their associated names?
Some common types of white wine and their associated names include Chardonnay, typically named after the grape varietal itself, or in Burgundy, France, named after the region like Chablis or Meursault. Sauvignon Blanc is another frequently encountered white wine, often labeled as Sauvignon Blanc, or in the Loire Valley of France, as Sancerre or Pouilly-Fumé, again reflecting regional appellations.
Riesling is known for its aromatic complexity and is commonly named after the grape, but also seen with regional names like Mosel in Germany. Pinot Grigio, also known as Pinot Gris, is another popular choice, often labeled with either name, depending on the region. Understanding these common varietals and their associated names can help consumers navigate the diverse landscape of white wines.
What are some examples of blended white wines and what are they usually called?
Blended white wines are created by combining different grape varietals to achieve a specific flavor profile or balance. These wines are often named after the brand or a proprietary name chosen by the winemaker, rather than after a specific grape. Examples include proprietary blends like Conundrum White or Apothic White, which don’t explicitly state the grape composition on the primary label.
However, some blended white wines may indicate the grape composition on the back label or a separate information sheet. In some European regions, particularly in areas with less strict appellation laws, wines might be labeled as “Vin de Pays” or “Indicazione Geografica Tipica,” indicating a broader geographical origin and potentially a blend of authorized grapes. The specific naming convention often depends on the region’s regulations and the winemaker’s branding strategy.
Why are some white wines named after places rather than grapes?
Some white wines are named after places rather than grapes due to the strong tradition and historical significance of certain wine regions, particularly in Europe. This naming convention reflects the belief that the terroir – the unique combination of soil, climate, and other environmental factors – significantly influences the character of the wine. Therefore, the region’s name becomes synonymous with a particular style and quality.
Examples include Chablis (made from Chardonnay grapes in the Chablis region of Burgundy, France) and Sancerre (made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes in the Sancerre region of the Loire Valley, France). These wines are recognized and valued for their regional characteristics, and the appellation laws ensure that the wines adhere to specific production standards and grape varietals. This geographical naming emphasizes the connection between the wine and its place of origin.