12. Tasting Temperatures
Wine should be tasted at the same temperature
at which they would be served for a meal
•Some prefer high-acid reds
(Beaujolais, Barbera, Chianti)
to be chilled as well
51. White Grapes
There are 50 major white grapes grown in the world today, 24 in California alone. The three
most important grapes are listed here, ranked by texture from lightest to most full-bodied.
European wines will usually be identified by their appellation; elsewhere wines will be
identified by varietal.
Grapes Where they grow best
Riesling Germany; Alsace, France; New York State
Sauvignon Blanc Loire Valley, France; Bordeaux, France;
New Zealand; California (Fumé Blanc)
Chardonnay Burgundy, France; California; Australia;
Champagne, France
Other significant white wine grapes, listed alphabetically:
Grapes Where they grow best
Albariño Spain
Chenin Blanc Loire Valley, France; California;
Gewürztraminer Alsace, France
Pinot Grigio/Gris Italy, Alsace, France
Sémillon Bordeaux (Sauternes), France; Australia
Viognier Rhone, France; California