There are two types of wine lovers, but they are by no means married to their choices. There are those who love red wine and there are those who love white. The red wine lover will be in some hurry to explain why their choice is great for a variety of meals – including that wonderful seafood. The white wine lover is at pains to describe how their chosen tipple can stand up to the most robust of beef stews. It is a matter of opinion – the days of matching white with fish and red with meat is no longer that ironclad rule. There are white wines that can stand up to the most robust of flavors.
Imported white wine is something that should be explored by every wine lover. There are places in the world where white wine is a way of life – and the products from these regions show the devotion that the cellar masters continue to apply to the production of a superior product.
However, for those who are thinking of investigating the wider world of wine what are the best countries to be looking at when one thins of imported white wine?
There is, of course, the Bordeaux region of France. When one looks at the crisp flavor of the classic Grand Cru there can be no better than those that are produced by the family-owned Marquis de Laguiche vineyard. This wine is something that sings. It is one of those rare white wines that will repay being let down to lie for around 20 years. The Joseph Drouhin 2014 Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche Grand Cru is one of those fabulous wines that are simply exquisite. At a price point of around $850 per bottle, you are going to have to have deep pockets to enjoy this wine – but it is worth the expense.
For another choice of great white wine look no further than Château Haut-Brion. Many people would associate this estate with some of the best red wines in the world – however, they also produce some wonderful whites. Estate manager Jean-Philippe Delmas has managed a team that produced something very special in the Château Haut-Brion 2013 Blanc Pessac-Léognan. The blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc sit together in a bottle that sings harmony. It is simply about the best balance that one could have. Close your eyes and the body comes alive – it could be a red when one experiences the body. At around $1,300 you’ll have to dig deep.
No mention of imported white wine can ignore champagne. this fizzy and vibrant treat is without a doubt a treat not to be missed. There is one name in Champagne that cannot be ignored – and that is Dom Perignon. The Dom Pérignon P2 Vintage 2000 is something that should be sought out and savored. This is luxury in a bottle. It is silky and indulgent. It is the king or queen of every table.
For those who want to investigate white wines that come from foreign shores there is ample opportunity – extend your tastebuds and take the first step outside your birders – it’s a journey you will not regret.