Wine Types

White Wines

Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc has been used for generations in France, and came to California in 1878. In the US it is also known as "Fumé Blanc". More wine is now actually sold under the Fumé Blanc bame than the Sauvignon Blanc name. Sauvignon Blanc has pronounced flavors of a herbal variety, plus olive and a soft, smoky flavor. They can be anything from sweet to dry, but are typically very light.

Pinot Gris / Pinot Grigio
In Italy and California it's known as Pinot Grigio, while in Oregon and France it's known as Gris. Other countries use the terms interchangeably. The Pinot Gris/Grigio grape derrives from the Pinot Noir grape, which is red. Most Pinot Grigio wines are created in Italy. The Italian version is typically dry and light, with a mineral taste to it. Californian versions of the wine tend to be richer in flavor, but still have the mineral taste. They often finish with a lemon or citrus flavor. French Pinot Gris wines tend to come from the Alsace region. These are more fruity and flowery, though they still have that mineral aroma. Flavors can range from peach to grapefruit to melon.

Chardonnay
The Chardonnay grape is thought to have originated in Lebanon, and in France Chardonnay became the only grape allowed to be grown in Chablis, Burgundy. These white Burgundy wines were well enjoyed, and the grape is also used in sparkling wines and Champagne.

Chardonnay became wildly popular when it was grown in California. It is now the most popular white wine available. Chardonnay vines are extremely easy to grow, and have a high yield. Chardonnay can take on a wide variety of flavors.