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 |
Albariño |
Spain |
Chenin Blanc |
Loire Valley, France; California; |
Gewürztraminer |
Alsace, France |
Pinot Grigio
/Pinot Gris |
Italy,
Alsace, France |
Sémillon |
Bordeaux (Sauternes), France; Australia |
Viognier |
Rhone, France; California |
