Do you really know what a white wine is? How is it made and what are the particularities of its elaboration that make it so different from the rest? In WINERY ON CREATIONS we tell you how this process is. A meticulous dance that involves a series of stages that should be known to properly assess the result we acquire when selecting a white wine.
What is a white wine
Wine is a drink that has accompanied mankind throughout history. It is a manifestation of the art of viticulture and oenology that has developed over the centuries to become a science.
One of the main expressions of wine is the white variety. An elegant and refined option that delights palates and stimulates conversations. But what distinguishes white wine from red and rosé wines? Do we really know what it is and how it is made?
The process of making a white wine
White wine is made from the alcoholic fermentation of the uncoloured pulp of grapes, whose skin can be either white or black. This process is crucial to maintain its characteristic yellowish colour, which can vary from straw-coloured to golden and green tones, and its crystalline transparency.
The diversity of white wines flooding the market today comes from an amalgam of grape varieties and different winemaking methods. These aspects, together with the residual sugar ratio, give them their uniqueness.
White wine in history
With a history stretching back 2,500 years, white wine has witnessed the evolution of civilisations and has taken root in all corners of the world with a deep-rooted winemaking tradition. That is, from the sunny hills of Europe to the vast vineyards of America and Oceania.
White grapes, which vary in colour from green to yellow, are the undisputed protagonists in the production of this type of wine. The most outstanding varieties are: chardonnay, sauvignon and riesling. All of them display a range of captivating aromas and flavours that make white wine a luxury.
Interestingly, even red grapes, such as the famous pinot noir, can be used to create white wines. The same goes for the famed champagne, which continues to defy convention with its timeless elegance.
Types of white wines
Within the diversity of white wines that currently exist, the dry wine is the most prevalent. Its aromatic nuances and its pleasant acidity that dances on the palate make it very attractive for the wine lover.
Sweet wines, on the other hand, stop fermentation before all the sugars are converted into alcohol, offering an exquisite delight for sweet lovers. Finally, sparkling wines are worth mentioning. These are mostly white, and are distinguished by their enchanting effervescence, which elevates any occasion to the category of celebration.
Uses of white wine
White wine is not only a drink to delight the palate, it is also a versatile culinary companion that enhances a wide range of dishes. From accompanying appetizers to enhancing the flavour of fish and seafood, its presence at the table is a sign of refinement and good taste. In the kitchen, its versatility is displayed in the preparation of risottos, white meats and an infinite number of recipes that benefit from its subtle influence.
Thus, the process of making white wine is a meticulous dance involving a series of stages, from destemming to final bottling. Crushing, alcoholic fermentation and maturation are just some of the steps that give white wine its unique character and sensory complexity.
