When it comes to white wines, there are several popular varieties that Americans enjoy drinking. Among these, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Riesling are some of the most popular choices. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of each of these white wine varieties and discuss why they are so beloved by American wine drinkers.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a popular white wine variety that is grown all over the world. It is known for its bright acidity and crisp, refreshing flavors of citrus, green apple, and tropical fruit. Many American wine drinkers enjoy Sauvignon Blanc as a light, easy-drinking wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, from seafood to salads to spicy dishes.
Some of the most popular Sauvignon Blanc wines in the United States come from California, particularly the Napa Valley and Sonoma County regions. These wines are known for their bright, fruit-forward flavors and crisp, refreshing acidity. Some of the top-rated Sauvignon Blanc wines in California include:
Duckhorn Vineyards – Duckhorn Vineyards is a winery located in Napa Valley that produces a range of high-quality wines, including a Sauvignon Blanc. Their Sauvignon Blanc is known for its bright flavors of citrus and tropical fruit, as well as its crisp acidity and long, refreshing finish.
Cakebread Cellars – Cakebread Cellars is another top-rated winery located in Napa Valley. Their Sauvignon Blanc is known for its complex flavors of citrus, peach, and melon, as well as its bright acidity and long, zesty finish.
Merry Edwards Winery – Merry Edwards Winery is a boutique winery located in Sonoma County that produces a range of high-quality wines, including a Sauvignon Blanc. Their Sauvignon Blanc is known for its bright, fruity flavors of citrus and tropical fruit, as well as its crisp acidity and long, refreshing finish.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is perhaps the most popular white wine variety in the United States. It is a rich, full-bodied wine that is known for its buttery, oaky flavors of vanilla, caramel, and toast. While some Chardonnays can be quite heavy and overpowering, many American wine drinkers enjoy lighter, more balanced versions of the wine that pair well with a variety of foods.
Chardonnay is grown all over the world, but some of the most popular and highly-rated Chardonnays in the United States come from California. The Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast, and Carneros regions are particularly well-known for their high-quality Chardonnays. Some of the top-rated Chardonnay wines in California include:
Kistler Vineyards – Kistler Vineyards is a highly-rated winery located in Sonoma County that produces a range of high-quality Chardonnay wines. Their Chardonnays are known for their rich, buttery flavors of vanilla and caramel, as well as their balanced acidity and long, smooth finish.
Peter Michael Winery – Peter Michael Winery is another top-rated winery located in Sonoma County that produces a range of high-quality Chardonnay wines. Their Chardonnays are known for their complex flavors of apple, pear, and citrus, as well as their smooth, creamy texture and long, elegant finish.
Rombauer Vineyards – Rombauer Vineyards is a popular winery located in Napa Valley that produces a range of high-quality wines, including a Chardonnay. Their Chardonnay is known for its rich, buttery flavors of vanilla and caramel, as well as its balanced acidity and long, smooth finish.