14 Driest White Wines (Our Top Picks)

So, you consider yourself a person with excellent taste, particularly when it comes to a glass of dry white wine with your evening meal. But do you really know what makes a white wine dry? And are you aware of all the different types of dry white wine out there? Let’s take your knowledge of dry white wine for a spin, shall we?

What Makes White Wine Dry?

First things first, let’s understand what makes a white wine dry. In wine terms, dry means the opposite of sweet. So, for a white wine to be considered dry, it must have a complete absence of residual sugar. In simpler terms, the less sweet the wine, the drier it is considered to be. Take a look at the dryness chart below:

| Rank | White Wine        |
|------|------------------|
| 1    | Assyrtiko        |
| 2    | Melon de Bourgogne |
| 3    | Sauvignon Blanc  |
| 4    | Gruner Veltliner |
| 5    | Chenin Blanc     |
| 6    | Pinot Grigio     |
| 7    | Semillon         |
| 8    | Albarino         |
| 9    | Chardonnay       |
| 10   | Viognier         |
| 11   | Torrontes        |
| 12   | Riesling         |
| 13   | Gewurztraminer   |
| 14   | Muscat           |

14 White Wines By Dryness

Here’s a list of our top picks for the driest white wines:

1. Assyrtiko: A dry wine from Santorini, Greece.
2. Melon de Bourgogne: The dry grape used in French Muscadet.
3. Sauvignon Blanc: A dry white wine grown worldwide, especially in France and New Zealand.
4. Gruner Veltliner: A dry Austrian white wine with grapefruit and white pepper notes.
5. Chenin Blanc: A dry South African white wine with varying styles.
6. Pinot Grigio: Mostly dry, but can have a touch of sweetness if from France as Pinot Gris.
7. Semillon: Dry Bordeaux white when blended with Sauvignon Blanc; used in Sauternes dessert wine.
8. Albarino: Dry white grape from Spain with notes of nectarines and peaches.
9. Chardonnay: A versatile dry white wine known for its accessibility.
10. Viognier: A highly aromatic dry white wine with perfume-like qualities.
11. Torrontes: An aromatic dry white wine from Argentina.
12. Riesling: Comes in various sweetness levels, dry examples available.
13. Gewurztraminer: A perfumed grape that tends to be off-dry but delightful to taste.
14. Muscat: A softly sweet and refreshing white wine, perfect for a palate cleanser.

Now, let’s dive deeper into some of these dry white wines:

1. Assyrtiko

Native to Santorini, the dreamy island in Greece, Assyrtiko wine is exceptionally dry and reminiscent of the sea. Its unique character makes it a must-try for wine enthusiasts.

2. Melon de Bourgogne

Used to make the deliciously dry French Muscadet, the Melon de Bourgogne grape produces zesty, citrusy, bone-dry white wines that pair perfectly with seafood dishes.

3. Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a fan favorite dry white wine grown with great success all over the world, especially in France and New Zealand. Its crispness and refreshing flavors make it a popular choice among wine enthusiasts.

4. Gruner Veltliner

This Austrian grape variety offers bright grapefruit and white pepper notes, making it an exquisite dry white wine choice for those who enjoy a touch of spice in their wine.

5. Chenin Blanc

Chenin Blanc can come in various styles, so make sure to read the label. When grown in South Africa, it produces a dry white wine worth seeking out. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of food pairings.

6. Pinot Grigio

Most Pinot Grigio wines are very dry, but it’s worth noting that when grown in France as Pinot Gris, this grape can have a touch of residual sweetness. Nevertheless, it remains a popular choice for those seeking a dry white wine.

The list continues with more delightful dry white wines to explore. Each offers its own unique flavor profile and experience to enhance your dining moments.

Dryness and Sweetness In White Wine Grapes

The sweetness or dryness of a white wine is determined by the sugar content present in the grapes at the time of picking. Grapes with high sugar levels will result in wines with noticeable sweetness. On the other hand, grapes with lower sugar levels will produce dry white wines once the fermentation process is complete.

Difference Between Sweet and Dry Wines

The only difference between a sweet white wine and a dry white wine is the presence of sugar. Dry white wines have an absence of sugar, while sweet wines have a noticeable amount of residual sugar. The distinction between the two lies in their flavor profiles and serving suggestions.

Serving Dry White Wines

To fully enjoy the flavors and acidity of dry white wines, it is best to serve them chilled. Aim for a serving temperature of around 6-8°C (42-47°F). Crisp, well-chilled dry white wines complement a variety of dishes and enhance the overall dining experience.

Best Food Pairings For Dry White Wine

When it comes to food pairings, dry white wines work well with delicate fish dishes, creamy risottos, and citrus-based salads. The crisp acidity of these wines complements the flavors of these dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry White Wines

Here are some commonly asked questions about dry white wines:

• Which white wine is the driest? Muscadet, Assyrtiko, and Sauvignon Blanc are among the driest white wines available today.
• How many calories are in a glass of dry white wine? One large glass of white wine, approximately 250ml, contains around 226 calories. However, this may vary depending on the specific wine.
• Which dry white wine is best for cooking? All dry white wines bring wonderful elements to dishes. Popular choices for cooking include Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio.
• How can you tell if a white wine is dry? Check the label or ask the seller. Alternatively, take a sip and see how your taste buds react.
• What is the best glass for dry white wine? A universal wine glass designed to enhance the flavors of white wine is ideal. Opt for a stemmed glass to prevent the wine from warming up too quickly in your hands.

Before You Go…

We hope you enjoyed our article on the driest white wines. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below or email us at [email protected]. If you’re looking to expand your wine collection, check out our selection of new wine coolers available online at Expert Wine Storage.

Cheers! 🍷