1. Chardonnay
Highly expressive grape which can be coaxed into many styles, from tropical and oaky in Australia, to crisp and tight in Chablis.
2. Chenin Blanc
Versatile grape, which varies on the spectrum from dry to sweet. Fresh and intense in France’s Loire Valley; and successful in South Africa where it is a bit fuller and more tropical.
3. Pinot Grigio
Top-selling Italian grape: dry, fresh and lemony; richer and more yellow-fruited from Central California.
4. Sauvignon Blanc
Zesty and refreshing in its traditional home in France (Loire Valley), ripe and tropically fruit-tinged in New Zealand – New World success story.
5. Viognier
Does better in slightly warmer climates than many white grapes, producing very fruity wine with lovely white stone fruit aromas.