While white wine is often categorized under hundreds of different varieties, they are usually divided into two types: dry and non-dry.
So what's the difference between the two? Simple.
Sweet white wine is not considered dry, while one that's acidic and not too sweet is.
The main factor that affects the level of dryness of whites is the way the wine was fermented.
During fermentation, natural sugars found in the grapes are converted into alcohol.
When this process is stopped prematurely, the wine produced will tend to be sweeter and more alcoholic.
This leads one to conclude that the longer the fermentation process, the dryer the wine becomes.
Now, how dry whites taste depends on the preferences of the drinker so you can't really say one type of dry white wine is better than the other.
However, there are major types that are really consistently good and are always enjoyed by a wide range of wine lovers.
Pinot Gris Known as Pinot Grigio in Italy, Pinot Gris is believed to be a mutation of Pinot Noir.
Its flavors may vary depending on the region from which it is produced, but generally, this white wine variety is characterized by mineral and fruit flavors.
'Crisp' and 'dry' are often used to describe Pinot Gris.
It is best enjoyed with dishes like clam soup, chili prawns, fish tacos, and parsley salad.
Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc is loved by many wine enthusiasts for its straightforwardness.
Experts describe this wine variety as 'crisp, fresh, and elegant'.
The name Sauvignon actually came from the French word sauvage, which means 'wild' and it is only right to name it as so because of its intense and uncomplicated flavor.
Europeans love to match this white wine with grilled shrimp and cheese with rocket salad, while Americans enjoy it with Waldorf salad and citrus cooked fish.
Riesling The Riesling grape variety is of German origin.
Its perfumed aroma and high acidity are what makes it the world's finest white wine variety.
If not first, Riesling is often ranked among the top three white wine varieties along with Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
The most expensive Riesling wines are made from grapes that are left on the vines well past the normal picking time.
Through a process referred to as "noble rot", the grapes can produce richer-tasting wines.
Of course, there are other dry whites you can add to your list including the ever-popular Chardonnay.
To increase your knowledge or discover more about the different types of dry whites, the best things you can do is inquire in your local wine store and take time to research online.