Other White Wine
While there are a slew of other white varietals out there in the world, a few more worth knowing about...
Albarino
Mostly grown and drunk in the northwest part of Spain,
Rias Baixas (in Galacia),
this grape is loved by almost
all who try it. A great alternative to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and every other white grape, Albarino is
aromatically intense, like Sauvignon Blanc, but with a creamy texture on the palate. The flavors and aromas
of an Albarino range from peach to lime to vanilla to honeysuckle. The crisp finish on wines from this grape
makes it perfect for just about any seafood.
Verdejo
Grown mainly in the Rueda
district of Spain, Verdejo is also found in Australia. The grape is herbaceous and
fairly aromatic. It's also grown in Portugal where it's called Verdelho.
Muller Thurgau
Once a too-often planted in Germany,
Muller-Thurgau is known for making wines of so-so character. A crossing
between Riesling and Sylvaner, this grape makes a lot of wine and most of it quaffable at best. Decent wines
of Muller-Thurgau are aromatic with a tinge of sweetness.
Airen
The most-planted white grape in the world. Odd, because most have never heard of it, but this white grape
covers the plains in Spain and with its acreage of vine, it wins the contest. Wines of the grape are pleasant
and the grape is often used to make blending wines.
Muscadet
Grown mainly in the region of the same name (within the Loire), Muscadet produces very easy drinking, light-bodied
wine with mineral notes and high acidity – often recommended to pair with oysters.