Compared to red grapes, white grape skins contain fewer tannins and aromatic substances. Due to the lack of tannin protection, white wines cannot be stored as red wines, and their flavors are light and delicate. Without a rich structure to support them, the acidity of white wines becomes the focal point of tasting.
The right amount of acidity is not only a good indicator of freshness and style, but is also one of the criteria for determining the longevity of a white wine. Those who promote healthy, lighter foods and enjoy seafood should not miss out on the surprises that come with tasting white wines and pairing them with dishes.
The wines of choice for wine pairing are those from the same region. This is probably because they all have long-established traditional flavors from the same region, and they are particularly compatible with each other.
A light, dry, oak-free white wine with a fresh taste and high acidity, ideal as a pre-dinner aperitif. Ideal for seafood gazpacho with oysters and other clam shells. It is also delicious with steamed fish or boiled seafood. For a slightly stronger flavor, serve with a lightly cooked chicken breast or pork tenderloin. Cheese is often the best choice for sheep’s milk yogurt cheese.
Sweet, full-bodied white wines can be paired with more robust dishes. A typical example of this type of wine is a dry white Chardonnay. It is usually fermented and cultivated in oak barrels. It has a full-bodied flavor and aromatic intensity.
It is very consistent in flavor with dishes made with lobster, scallops, crawfish, crab, etc. It is thick, even with sautéed foie gras and other thick and greasy appetizers. This white wine can also be used with fish or poultry in fresh cream. However, it is best to avoid light seafood dishes because of the oaky taste.
A fruity dry white, represented by Muscat, usually has a sweet taste of tropical fruit, a rounded mouthfeel and low acidity. Its distinctive flavor is ideal for aromatic, or spice-rich, dishes with unusual flavors. Muscat is particularly good with asparagus, which is not a wine.
Semi-sweet Riesling white wine is usually drunk on its own. It also pairs well with spicy Indian dishes, often sweet Japanese dishes, and even sweet sauces. It can also be paired with more personalized sauces such as curry, shrimp paste, and salsa. In addition, high acidity, low sweetness desserts or fruit desserts are worth trying.
