Which White Wine for an Aperitif?

The aperitif is an essential moment of conviviality, where friends or family gather to share a drink and some appetizers before the meal. The choice of white wine for the aperitif depends not only on your preferences but also on the type of aperitif you wish to organize.

What Type of Aperitif Do You Want to Organize?

Before choosing the ideal white wine, it is important to define the type of aperitif you have in mind. For a light aperitif, intended to whet the appetite without overwhelming the palate, a dry and fruity white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, is perfect. This type of wine pairs well with light appetizers like crudités, seafood, or cheese-topped toasts.

If you want to organize a chic aperitif for a special occasion, a well-structured Chardonnay, with subtle notes of white-fleshed fruits and a nice length on the palate, would be a wise choice. Accompany it with foie gras, smoked salmon, or sophisticated verrines for a guaranteed effect.

During long summer evenings, a "dinner aperitif" is often appropriate. For this type of gathering, where people nibble throughout the evening, a slightly sweet white wine like a Riesling or a Gewurztraminer can add a touch of sweetness. These wines pair perfectly with spicy dishes, fruit skewers, and mixed salads.

For an original aperitif, why not draw inspiration from Italian or Spanish traditions? An Italian wine like Prosecco for a refreshing Spritz or a Spanish wine such as Albariño to accompany tapas or Iberian charcuterie are perfect choices. These sparkling and aromatic wines bring an exotic touch to your aperitif.

For vegetarian or vegan aperitifs, consider a white wine that pairs well with vegetables, nuts, and vegan cheeses. A Sauvignon Blanc or a dry white wine from organic farming would do the job nicely.

Choosing the Wines: Dry, Sweet, or Sparkling?

Once the type of aperitif is defined, it's time to choose the style of white wine that will best match the dishes served. A dry white wine is always a safe option for the aperitif, especially for light and chic aperitifs. Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are classic choices that pair with a wide variety of dishes, from simple tapenade to more elaborate dishes.

If you prefer a sweet white wine, turn to a Moscato d'Asti or a Gewurztraminer. These wines are particularly appreciated at dinner aperitifs, where they balance out spicy or sweet-and-savory dishes.

For a festive aperitif, nothing beats a sparkling wine. Prosecco is a must for Spritz lovers, while a "marquisette" or a white sangria will bring a touch of freshness and originality.

The Main Aperitifs with White Wine: Which Wine to Choose?

Kir with white wine is a French classic that is made with a dry white wine, typically an Aligoté or Sauvignon Blanc, and a dash of crème de cassis. The marquisette, originating from southern France, is a drink made from white wine, lemon, sugar, and sometimes orange liqueur, served well chilled. A dry and neutral white wine will work perfectly. For white sangria, inspired by traditional Spanish sangria, the white version is made with white wine, fresh fruits, and a hint of liqueur. A Verdejo or Chardonnay are excellent choices for this refreshing drink.

White wine for the aperitif should be chosen based on the style of aperitif you wish to organize. Whether you opt for a light aperitif, a chic aperitif, a summer dinner aperitif, or an Italian or Spanish aperitif, there is a perfect white wine for every occasion. Whether you are a fan of dry, sweet, or sparkling white wine, let your tastes and those of your guests guide you to make your aperitif an unforgettable moment.