Top 10 aromas in white wine

The act of holding a glass of wine is a multi-sensory experience that engages and awakens all our senses, especially those that are not in constant use like taste and smell. Our sight and hearing, being in continuous use, are fine-tuned senses, but it is the sense of smell, often underestimated in its ability, that works round the clock as our primary alert system. It's this alertness, for instance, that can awaken us from sleep at the detection of a strong scent, such as something burning.

This sensory engagement is particularly evident when tasting wine. Wine tasting involves a complex interplay of sensory stimuli, encompassing both aromas and flavors. When these elements are present in sufficient quantity, they excite or stimulate the sensitive nerve endings in our senses. This reflex is known as sensation, a process that transmits signals to the specialized areas of the brain – the olfactory and gustatory centers. If the brain recognizes, identifies, and compares these sensations with previously memorized or learned information, perception occurs. While sensation is an unconscious process, perception is its conscious counterpart. This implies that we can only identify aromas or flavors in wine that we have previously experienced in a focused and conscious manner.

For those who believe their sense of smell is not well-developed, do not be discouraged. There are aromas you have likely encountered more often than you remember. To exercise and explore the sense of smell, it is recommended to close the eyes, inhale deeply, and then inhale again. This practice can transport you with aromas to sensations, places, and people beyond the constraints of time and space.

The Top 10 Aromas of White Wine

In the realm of white wines, aromas are categorized into primary or varietal aromas (typical of each grape), secondary aromas (developed during the winemaking process), and tertiary aromas (contributed by aging). Let's explore the 10 most common aromas found in white wines.

1. Lemon: Often found in dry white wines, particularly those from cooler climates and in varieties like Riesling, lemon imparts a refreshing sensation.
2. Grapefruit: Characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc, this aroma stems from the presence of nootkatone, a molecule found in the fruit's essential oil and juice.
3. Pineapple: Common in young wines like New World Chardonnays and botrytis-affected sweet wines (such as French Sauternes), pineapple is also prominent in wines made from the Semillon grape.
4. Lychee: This exotic fruit aroma is typically noticed in mature wines and is a classic note in Alsacian Gewurztraminers, Tokays, some Pinot Gris, and sweet wines.
5. Pear: Indicative of a sweet sensation, pear is found in sweet or dessert wines, some Chardonnays, and Blanc de Blancs Champagnes.
6. Orange Blossom: The quintessential floral note in white wines, it arises from terpenes like nerol, linalol, citronerol, prevalent in wines made with Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Viognier, or Chardonnay.
7. Honey: Typically present in sweet, dessert wines and wines made from overripe grapes, honey notes often accompany fruity flavors like quince, mango, or nuts.
8. Butter: A classic lactic note, butter is often found in Chardonnays or premium sparkling wines and is enhanced in oak-aged Chardonnays.
9. Toasted: Originating from oak aging, the subtle aroma of toasted bread can also be found in premium sparkling wines made using the traditional method, after prolonged contact with yeast.
10. Hazelnut: Conveying seduction and finesse, hazelnut is common in Chardonnays, aged Champagnes, and wines from Southern Spain like Jerez's Amontillados.