When thinking about white wines, Riesling and Chardonnay probably come to mind first, with Pinot Grigio coming in a close third. White wines are are often light and fruity, making them the perfect wine for spring and summer and for pairing with poultry and fish dishes. Although Riesling and Chardonnay are quite different, they still remain popular choices for those of us who love refreshing glasses of white wines. Riesling wines originated in the Rhein and Mosel river valleys in Germany and the majority of them are still produced there. A Riesling does not fall into one specific flavor palette. They can be sweet or dry, full or light-bodied. With such versatility, it's not surprising these white wines have become a favorite of many. Despite being the new kid on the block, they have gained tremendous popularity over the years -now selling in the double digits. If purchasing a German bottle, look for the words "trocken" and "halbtrocken." The former means it is a dry wine and the latter means it is half dry. Rieslings are very aromatic and you will most likely enjoy the scents of apple, pear, and peach. There are usually subtle hints of florals, honey, and spices mixed in there too. When tasting the wine, you will taste those fruity flavors. When it comes to pairing them with food, the sky's the limit. Drink them with appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Naturally they pair nicely with shellfish, poultry, and pork, but don't be afraid to drink them with spicier foods too. The majority of wine produced in Germany are Riesling wines. There are about 13 different regions dedicated to creating this tasty wine. The Mosel region is the most famous. The Mosel River runs through this region and that is how it received its name. White wines from this region are lighter and more crisp. Other notable regions include, Pfalz, Rheinhessan, Rheingau, and Nahe. Chardonnay, unlike most Rieslings, is a dry wine. Chardonnay is actually the number one selling white wine in America. The Chardonnay grape is considered low maintenance and grows well in a wide array of climates, therefore, it is easy for regions all over the world to produce this wine. This also means that you can buy an excellent bottle for a relatively low cost. The profile of Chardonnay is also varied. They range from buttered and oak flavors to fruit and citrus flavors. Chardonnay pairs well with seafood, poultry, pork, and recipes that use a heavy cream or butter base. Chardonnay is believed to have originated in France, specifically in the Burgundy region, but today it is literally grown wherever wine is produced. It is also a large component in Champagne and sparkling wines. The wine became so popular in the 1980s that it eventually led to a major backlash. However, it bounced back over the years and is now one of the best selling white wines. If you're in the market for delicious white wines, put these two varietals at the top of your list.
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