GITNUX REPORT 2024

Chardonnay Leads as Most Popular White Wines in the US

Discover the Top White Wines: Chardonnay Leads, Sauvignon Blanc Soars, and Riesling Rises Globally!

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

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Chardonnay accounts for 43% of white wine sales in the US

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The average price of a bottle of Chardonnay is $14

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Chardonnay is grown in over 40 countries worldwide

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California produces 90% of all US Chardonnay

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Chardonnay is the 5th most planted grape variety globally

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Chardonnay has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Vivino

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Sauvignon Blanc has an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars on Vivino

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Pinot Grigio has an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars on Vivino

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Riesling has an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars on Vivino

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Moscato has an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars on Vivino

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62% of white wine drinkers prefer dry wines over sweet wines

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78% of white wine consumers consider the grape variety when making a purchase

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45% of white wine drinkers prefer screw cap closures over cork

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68% of white wine consumers are willing to pay more for organic or sustainable options

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53% of white wine drinkers prefer to consume wine with food rather than on its own

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Chardonnay pairs well with 68% of popular seafood dishes

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Sauvignon Blanc is recommended for 72% of salad-based meals

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Riesling complements 81% of spicy Asian cuisine dishes

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Pinot Grigio is suggested for 65% of light pasta dishes

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Moscato pairs well with 79% of dessert dishes

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White wines are recommended for 58% of cheese pairings

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Chardonnay is the preferred pairing for 73% of roasted chicken dishes

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Sauvignon Blanc is suggested for 84% of goat cheese pairings

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Riesling complements 76% of pork dishes

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Pinot Grigio is recommended for 69% of seafood appetizers

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White wine accounts for 45% of global wine production

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The global white wine market is expected to reach $95 billion by 2027

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White wine consumption in the US increased by 1.5% in 2020

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Online sales of white wine increased by 234% during the COVID-19 pandemic

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Millennials consume 42% of all wine in the US, with a preference for white wines

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The average price of a bottle of white wine in the US is $14.41

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White wine sales account for 46% of total wine sales in the UK

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The global organic white wine market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% from 2021 to 2028

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White wine blends have seen a 6% increase in sales in the US over the past year

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Low-alcohol white wines have seen a 30% increase in sales globally

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Moscato accounts for 6% of white wine sales in the US

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Italy produces 30% of the world's Moscato

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The average price of a bottle of Moscato is $9

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Moscato sales in the US increased by 14% in 2020

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Moscato is the fastest-growing white wine variety in the US

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Pinot Grigio is the third most popular white wine in the US

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Italy produces 43% of the world's Pinot Grigio

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The average price of a bottle of Pinot Grigio is $11

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Pinot Grigio sales in the US increased by 19% in 2020

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Pinot Grigio is the most exported Italian white wine

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Chardonnay grapes are harvested at 21-24 Brix (sugar content)

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The fermentation process for white wines typically takes 10-14 days

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White wines are typically aged for 6-12 months before bottling

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The optimal serving temperature for most white wines is between 45-50°F (7-10°C)

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White wines are typically fermented at temperatures between 50-65°F (10-18°C)

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The average yield for white wine grapes is 3-5 tons per acre

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Stainless steel tanks are used for 80% of white wine fermentation

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The average alcohol content of white wine is 11.5%

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White wines typically have a pH between 3.0 and 3.4

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The average shelf life of an unopened bottle of white wine is 1-2 years

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Riesling is the 20th most planted grape variety globally

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Germany produces 45% of the world's Riesling

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The average price of a bottle of Riesling is $15

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Riesling is grown in over 20 countries worldwide

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Riesling sales in the US increased by 4% in 2020

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Sauvignon Blanc is the second most popular white wine in the US

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New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc exports increased by 24% in 2020

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Sauvignon Blanc accounts for 86% of New Zealand's wine exports

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The average price of a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc is $12

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Sauvignon Blanc is grown in over 30 countries worldwide

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Summary

  • Chardonnay accounts for 43% of white wine sales in the US
  • The average price of a bottle of Chardonnay is $14
  • Chardonnay is grown in over 40 countries worldwide
  • California produces 90% of all US Chardonnay
  • Chardonnay is the 5th most planted grape variety globally
  • Sauvignon Blanc is the second most popular white wine in the US
  • New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc exports increased by 24% in 2020
  • Sauvignon Blanc accounts for 86% of New Zealand's wine exports
  • The average price of a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc is $12
  • Sauvignon Blanc is grown in over 30 countries worldwide
  • Pinot Grigio is the third most popular white wine in the US
  • Italy produces 43% of the world's Pinot Grigio
  • The average price of a bottle of Pinot Grigio is $11
  • Pinot Grigio sales in the US increased by 19% in 2020
  • Pinot Grigio is the most exported Italian white wine

Pour a glass, sit back, and lets dive into the fascinating world of white wines – where Chardonnay reigns supreme as the Beyoncé of the grape world, accounting for a whopping 43% of white wine sales in the US and boasting an average price of $14 per bottle. From the crisp Sauvignon Blanc, darling of New Zealands wine exports, to the zesty Pinot Grigio dancing its way through Italys vineyards, and the elegant Riesling adding a touch of sweetness globally, we uncover the juicy statistics and tantalizing trends shaping the most popular white wines adored by millennials and oenophiles alike. Cheers to swirling, sipping, and savoring the nectar of the gods!

Chardonnay

  • Chardonnay accounts for 43% of white wine sales in the US
  • The average price of a bottle of Chardonnay is $14
  • Chardonnay is grown in over 40 countries worldwide
  • California produces 90% of all US Chardonnay
  • Chardonnay is the 5th most planted grape variety globally

Interpretation

Chardonnay may be the reigning queen of white wines, with its versatile charm captivating palates worldwide and dominating US sales with the authority of a seasoned ruler. With an average bottle priced at $14, it strikes the perfect balance between quality and affordability, making it the quintessential go-to choice for wine enthusiasts. Hailing from over 40 countries, but predominantly thriving in California where it represents an impressive 90% of US production, Chardonnay symbolizes the epitome of global viticultural prowess. Earning its esteemed rank as the 5th most planted grape variety worldwide, Chardonnay continues to reign supreme over the white wine realm with its undeniable grace and widespread popularity.

Consumer Preferences

  • Chardonnay has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Vivino
  • Sauvignon Blanc has an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars on Vivino
  • Pinot Grigio has an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars on Vivino
  • Riesling has an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars on Vivino
  • Moscato has an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars on Vivino
  • 62% of white wine drinkers prefer dry wines over sweet wines
  • 78% of white wine consumers consider the grape variety when making a purchase
  • 45% of white wine drinkers prefer screw cap closures over cork
  • 68% of white wine consumers are willing to pay more for organic or sustainable options
  • 53% of white wine drinkers prefer to consume wine with food rather than on its own

Interpretation

In the white wine realm, Chardonnay reigns as the darling with its impressive 4.1-star rating on Vivino, showcasing its popularity among connoisseurs. However, let's not forget the underdogs like Pinot Grigio and Riesling, holding their own with respectable ratings. With most white wine drinkers leaning towards dry over sweet options, it seems sophistication is preferred over saccharine indulgence. And let's raise a glass to the majority of consumers who value sustainability, willing to pay extra for organic choices. It's clear that white wine enthusiasts not only appreciate a good bottle but also the story behind it, making every sip a flavorful experience worth savoring alongside a delicious meal. Cheers to the eclectic tastes and discerning palates of white wine aficionados!

Food Pairing

  • Chardonnay pairs well with 68% of popular seafood dishes
  • Sauvignon Blanc is recommended for 72% of salad-based meals
  • Riesling complements 81% of spicy Asian cuisine dishes
  • Pinot Grigio is suggested for 65% of light pasta dishes
  • Moscato pairs well with 79% of dessert dishes
  • White wines are recommended for 58% of cheese pairings
  • Chardonnay is the preferred pairing for 73% of roasted chicken dishes
  • Sauvignon Blanc is suggested for 84% of goat cheese pairings
  • Riesling complements 76% of pork dishes
  • Pinot Grigio is recommended for 69% of seafood appetizers

Interpretation

In the intricate dance of food and wine pairings, these Most Popular White Wines statistics reveal that white wines are the versatile chameleons of the culinary world, effortlessly adapting to a variety of dishes. Chardonnay, the classic crowd-pleaser, plays the role of the reliable companion to a range of seafood and poultry dishes, while the vibrant Sauvignon Blanc takes center stage with salad and goat cheese pairings. Riesling's spicy personality shines through when paired with Asian cuisine and pork dishes, adding a zesty kick to the table. Meanwhile, Pinot Grigio effortlessly glides through light pasta and seafood appetizers like a seasoned pro, and the sweet notes of Moscato bring a harmonious conclusion to any meal with its dessert pairing prowess. In the delightful symphony of flavors and aromas, these white wines prove that there's never a dull moment at the dinner table.

Market Trends

  • White wine accounts for 45% of global wine production
  • The global white wine market is expected to reach $95 billion by 2027
  • White wine consumption in the US increased by 1.5% in 2020
  • Online sales of white wine increased by 234% during the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Millennials consume 42% of all wine in the US, with a preference for white wines
  • The average price of a bottle of white wine in the US is $14.41
  • White wine sales account for 46% of total wine sales in the UK
  • The global organic white wine market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% from 2021 to 2028
  • White wine blends have seen a 6% increase in sales in the US over the past year
  • Low-alcohol white wines have seen a 30% increase in sales globally

Interpretation

As the white wine wave continues to ripple across the globe, it's clear that the allure of this fruity elixir knows no bounds. From the millennial sippers driving its consumption to the pandemic-induced surge in online wine acquisitions, white wine is undeniably having a moment. With trends pointing towards organic growth and a taste for lighter blends, it seems that the old saying of "red or white?" might soon be answered with a resounding chorus of "make mine a white!" In a world where statistics can often be dry as a Chardonnay, these numbers paint a vivid picture of a market swirling with potential – cheers to the wine-loving enthusiasts steering this sparkling ship towards brighter horizons.

Moscato

  • Moscato accounts for 6% of white wine sales in the US
  • Italy produces 30% of the world's Moscato
  • The average price of a bottle of Moscato is $9
  • Moscato sales in the US increased by 14% in 2020
  • Moscato is the fastest-growing white wine variety in the US

Interpretation

The rise of Moscato in the white wine scene is no mere fizzled trend, but a full-bodied force to be reckoned with. Its sweet notes have captured the hearts (and palates) of American consumers, accounting for a not-so-humble 6% of white wine sales. Italy, the maestro of Moscato, keeps the world in tune with its 30% production share. Despite its increasing popularity, Moscato remains an affordable delight at an average price tag of $9 per bottle, making it a high-quality sip that won't break the bank. With a 14% surge in sales in the tumultuous year of 2020, Moscato is not just a passing fancy—it's a rising star in the constellation of white wine varieties, sparkling its way to the top as the fastest-growing choice for wine enthusiasts across the US. Cheers to the irresistible allure of Moscato!

Pinot Grigio

  • Pinot Grigio is the third most popular white wine in the US
  • Italy produces 43% of the world's Pinot Grigio
  • The average price of a bottle of Pinot Grigio is $11
  • Pinot Grigio sales in the US increased by 19% in 2020
  • Pinot Grigio is the most exported Italian white wine

Interpretation

In the world of white wines, Pinot Grigio is clearly having its moment in the sun, or should we say in the vineyard. With Italy reigning supreme as the producer of nearly half of the world's Pinot Grigio, it's no wonder this crisp and refreshing varietal has captured the hearts (and palates) of wine lovers across the globe. Despite its affordable average price tag of $11, Pinot Grigio's popularity is soaring, as evidenced by the 19% sales spike in the US last year. It seems that this enchanting Italian export continues to prove itself as the darling of wine aficionados everywhere, cementing its status as the reigning queen bee of Italian white wines. Cheers to that!

Production

  • Chardonnay grapes are harvested at 21-24 Brix (sugar content)
  • The fermentation process for white wines typically takes 10-14 days
  • White wines are typically aged for 6-12 months before bottling
  • The optimal serving temperature for most white wines is between 45-50°F (7-10°C)
  • White wines are typically fermented at temperatures between 50-65°F (10-18°C)
  • The average yield for white wine grapes is 3-5 tons per acre
  • Stainless steel tanks are used for 80% of white wine fermentation
  • The average alcohol content of white wine is 11.5%
  • White wines typically have a pH between 3.0 and 3.4
  • The average shelf life of an unopened bottle of white wine is 1-2 years

Interpretation

The statistics on white wines might seem like a dry list of numbers and measurements, but behind every 21-24 Brix harvested Chardonnay grape and perfectly aged 6-12 months in a stainless steel tank lies a tale of precision and artistry. From the optimal serving temperature of 45-50°F to the average alcohol content of 11.5%, white wines exemplify the delicate balance between science and craftsmanship. So next time you raise a glass of your favorite white varietal, remember the meticulous process that went into creating that liquid poetry in a bottle – it's not just data, it's a sip of dedication and passion.

Riesling

  • Riesling is the 20th most planted grape variety globally
  • Germany produces 45% of the world's Riesling
  • The average price of a bottle of Riesling is $15
  • Riesling is grown in over 20 countries worldwide
  • Riesling sales in the US increased by 4% in 2020

Interpretation

Riesling seems to be on a global conquest, quietly but confidently making its mark in the wine world. Like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, this aromatic and versatile grape has found a stronghold in Germany, where it reigns supreme, producing almost half of the world's Riesling. With its affordable price point and presence in over 20 countries, Riesling is proving to be a crowd-pleaser that is slowly but steadily winning over wine enthusiasts. Its growing popularity in the US, with a 4% increase in sales in 2020, suggests that this underdog may soon rise to prominence as the wine of choice for those in the know. Cheers to the unsung hero of white wines!

Sauvignon Blanc

  • Sauvignon Blanc is the second most popular white wine in the US
  • New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc exports increased by 24% in 2020
  • Sauvignon Blanc accounts for 86% of New Zealand's wine exports
  • The average price of a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc is $12
  • Sauvignon Blanc is grown in over 30 countries worldwide

Interpretation

Move over Chardonnay, there's a new favorite in town! Sauvignon Blanc is strutting its stuff as the second most popular white wine in the US, with New Zealand leading the charge with a 24% increase in exports in 2020. This zesty varietal has taken the wine world by storm, dominating a whopping 86% of New Zealand's wine exports. And at an average price of just $12 a bottle, it's no wonder wine lovers from over 30 countries worldwide are raising a glass to this versatile and refreshing grape. Talk about Sauvignon Blanc supremacy!

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