Describing a wine as "dry" means sugar is not present in the finished wine; dry wines are the opposite of "sweet" wines and are sometimes referred to as table wines. Dry wines can vary greatly in taste, aroma, and flavor and wines from warmer regions like California can taste bright and sweet despite being sugar-free. Many types of wine can be dry, but the most common varieties are Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, , and .
Chardonnay
Chardonnays are often dry, but can be semi-dry or even sweet. A rich, versatile white wine, Chardonnay often takes on the characteristics of the land and vegetation in the region where it is grown. However, across the board Chardonnays are smooth and full-bodied, and pair well with rich foods, especially creamy or buttery sauces.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine that was brought to the United States as a dessert wine, but is now most often sold in its dry form, sometimes under the pseudonym Fumé Blanc. Sauvignon Blanc has naturally high acidity, which yields a tangy, zesty wine that can be paired with a variety of foods. Dishes with strong flavors like garlic, peppers, or strong cheeses go well with a Sauvignon Blanc but would overpower most other white wines, including Chardonnay.
Merlot
Merlot is a deep red wine that often has a smokey bouquet with heavy aromas like violet and plum. One of the most popular red wines in the United States, Merlot pairs well with strong, savory flavors including red meats and poultry as well as rich cheeses. Merlot has lower tannin content than Cabernet or Bordeaux, which means it has a lighter finish and is often used to soften red wine blends.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a velvety red wine with a complex aroma and spicy top notes. It is rich without being heavy and usually has high alcohol content. The best dishes to highlight the complexity of a Pinot Noir are simple meals like grilled salmon, roast beef, or any entrée featuring mushrooms. is sometimes used as a cooking wine, especially in classic French dishes like Coq au Vin and Boeuf Bourguignon.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a flavorful red becomes richer with age, and often has a robust bouquet with an aroma of black currant. Cabernet Sauvignon is characterized by its strong finish on the tongue, and is a good match for hearty red pastas, red meat, and dark chocolate.
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