As we all know, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling are the three most popular white grape varieties in the world, each with many fans. Comparing the wines produced by the three of them, who is better? Let the Wine Encyclopedia take you to find out.
What do Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling refer to?
Chardonnay
If Cabernet Sauvignon is synonymous with red wine, then Chardonnay is synonymous with white wine, which plays an immeasurable role in white wine. Chardonnay's characteristics in different countries will not be exactly the same. Chardonnay wines produced in cold and cool areas often have flavors such as apples and pears, wines produced in warm areas have flavors such as citrus and melon, and wines produced in hot areas have flavors of tropical fruits such as pineapple and mango, so Chardonnay is also known as the "Queen of Change".
For more Chardonnay knowledge, please click here to read the "Most Complete Chardonnay Guide"!
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a wild grape that is grown and made in many countries, and produces wine styles that vary widely, from charming sweet whites such as the Sauternes region of Bordeaux to fresh and delicious dry whites, such as the Loire Valley in France and New Zealand.
For more Sauvignon Blanc knowledge, please click here to read the full Sauvignon Blanc guide!
Riesling
Riesling is Germany's "national treasure" white grape variety, is also one of the most aromatic grape varieties in the world, the wine often with lemon and citrus and other aromas, exquisite and delicate taste, of which the old Riesling wine also has a gasoline flavor. Riesling is also a versatile grape variety that can be made into refreshing dry whites, late harvest sweet whites, or expensive rot wines and ice wines.
For more information about Riesling, please click here to read the "Most Comprehensive Riesling Guide"!
What is the difference between Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling?
color
Overall, the colors of the three show different degrees of lemon color. The lightest color of Sauvignon Blanc is lime. Chardonnay is the darkest in color, light golden. Riesling is light lemon yellow, the specific color can refer to the following figure.
aroma
Sauvignon Blanc is accompanied by a fresh scent of greenery such as citrus, grass, gooseberry and elderflower, but the aroma is not strong. Sauvignon Blanc from warm regions may also have the fragrance of melon plants.
Compared to Sauvignon Blanc, the aroma of Riesling seems to be less intense, often with apple, peach, lime, honeysuckle or mineral smells.
And when it comes to Chardonnay, it's even more different. The aging process inside the oak barrels gives most Chardonnay aromas of vanilla, cedar, cream sugar and nuts. In addition, it also hides a little lemon and green apple aroma, do you feel it?
palate
Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are mostly dry, while Riesling is both dry and sweet. From the data in the following table, we can clearly understand the difference in taste between them.
It should be noted that the sweetness of Riesling is determined by its brewing method, and its body is above or below medium. Chardonnay, aged in oak barrels, is usually heavier, with vanilla and nutty notes.
catering
Sauvignon Blanc has a high acidity, purifies the taste buds, and is a good choice for all-round matching. Classic food pairings include shellfish (oysters, clams, shrimp), fish (preferably grilled or steamed), salads and lots of appetizers.
Although Riesling is also highly acidic, it is medium in body and more rounded in taste, which is a perfect match for seafood, appetizers and some Asian dishes. Some regions brew slightly sweet Rieslings, such as sushi, curry, Thai and Indian dishes, which are also a great combination.
Chardonnay, the heaviest of the three, is perfect for dishes with butter, such as scallops in butter, fried fish, etc. At the same time, it can also be paired with pasta and roast pork, which is very delicious. However, it is important not to eat Chardonnay with raw seafood that has been aged intricately structured.