The 20 Best White Wines to Try in 2025
Published: April 9, 2025
What makes a white wine truly unforgettable? Is it the crisp burst of citrus on a warm summer evening? Or the buttery richness that pairs perfectly with a creamy pasta dish? No matter your preference, there’s a white wine out there with your name on it — and this year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular.
In this post, we’re breaking down the 20 best white wines of the year, neatly categorized by region, varietal, and value. Whether you’re hunting for a budget-friendly bottle or an indulgent luxury wine, we’ve got you covered.
What Makes a White Wine "The Best"?
But what exactly earns a wine its "best" status? A combination of key factors ensures these selections stand out:
- Taste Profile: The best white wines strike an impeccable balance — vibrant fruit flavors, refreshing acidity, and, when appropriate, a touch of oak for depth. Think bright lemon and green apple for a crisp finish, or tropical pineapple and vanilla for a richer experience.
- Wine Aging Potential: Some white wines shine brightest in youth, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, while others, such as fine Chardonnay or Riesling, reward patience with a more complex, developed character.
- Value for Money: It's a common misconception that the best wines come with a hefty price tag. But you’ll be happy to learn that an amazing bottle doesn’t have to break the bank. Affordable varietals like Chenin Blanc prove that great taste can come with a reasonable price tag.
- Wine Pairing: White wine’s versatility is a big part of its charm. From sipping as an aperitif to serving with everything from seafood and salads to creamy risottos and grilled veggies, there’s a pairing for every dish.
Now that you’re prepped, let’s dive into our list of the 20 best white wines, curated to please every palate and occasion.
Our List of the 20 Best White Wines by Category
Whether you’re a diehard Chardonnay fan or a Sauvignon Blanc aficionado, this list highlights the cream of the crop in the world of white wines. From world-renowned regions like Napa Valley and Marlborough to hidden gems from South Africa and Chile, here’s what you should be sipping in 2025:
1. Best Overall White Wine
Kendall-Jackson | Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2022
Varietal: Chardonnay
Region: California, USA
Tasting Notes: Kendall-Jackson’s Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2022 is a true standout, offering a layered experience that begins with an inviting bouquet of ripe pear, zesty citrus, and a whisper of vanilla and toasted oak. The palate reveals lush flavors of juicy peach, green apple, creating a smooth, creamy texture that dances across the tongue. Balanced acidity and a touch of spice from the oak provide depth, finishing with a lingering note of rich, ripe fruit and vanilla.
Why We Love it: This Chardonnay exemplifies the craftsmanship and consistency that Kendall-Jackson is known for, delivering a wine that is both opulent and elegant. It strikes a perfect balance between richness and freshness, making it a versatile companion to a wide array of dishes—from creamy pastas to grilled chicken. Whether you're celebrating or simply enjoying a quiet evening, this wine is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
2. Best Northern California White Wine
Hartford | Four Hearts Chardonnay 2019
Varietal: Chardonnay
Region: Sonoma County, California
Tasting Notes: Hartford’s Four Hearts Chardonnay 2019 offers an extraordinary expression of Sonoma’s terroir, beginning with vibrant aromas of lemon zest, green apple, and a touch of wet stone. The wine's lively acidity is complemented by a silky smooth texture, creating an invigorating mouthfeel. Notes of freshly baked bread and delicate minerality round out the profile, leading to a long, refreshing finish that makes each sip feel like a new discovery.
Why We Love it: This Chardonnay is a perfect example of why Sonoma County remains a top-tier destination for fine wine. Hartford’s dedication to purity and precision shines through, with a wine that offers both complexity and approachability. It’s a sophisticated yet refreshing choice that pairs beautifully with everything from grilled seafood to buttery lobster rolls, embodying the true essence of Northern California’s winemaking prowess.
3. Best Sonoma County White Wine
Matanzas Creek | Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Sonoma County, California
Tasting Notes: Matanzas Creek’s 2023 Sauvignon Blanc is a vibrant, zesty wine that bursts with aromas of lime, passionfruit, and a hint of fresh herbs. The first sip brings a lively burst of tropical fruits—think pineapple, guava, and kiwi—balanced by a touch of grassy complexity that adds depth. Its crisp acidity gives it an invigorating mouthfeel, and the finish is clean, with a refreshing herbal note that lingers just long enough to make you crave another sip.
Why We Love it: This Sauvignon Blanc is the epitome of Sonoma’s ability to craft wines that are both refreshing and layered. The perfect companion to summer days, seafood, or salads, this wine offers an elegant balance of fruitiness and crispness. Matanzas Creek has consistently delivered exceptional wines that capture the essence of Sonoma, and this Sauvignon Blanc is no exception—lively, bright, and utterly satisfying.
4. Best Napa Valley White Wine
Freemark Abbey | Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Napa Valley, California
Tasting Notes: Freemark Abbey’s 2023 Sauvignon Blanc is an aromatic treasure, opening with enticing notes of grapefruit, melon, and delicate white flowers. On the palate, the wine is vibrant and layered, with citrus zest and a subtle hint of honeydew, leading to a smooth yet crisp texture. Its refreshing acidity is balanced by a slightly round mouthfeel, while the finish is long and persistent, leaving behind notes of lemon and lime zest.
Why We Love it: Napa Valley is often associated with bold reds, but Freemark Abbey’s Sauvignon Blanc showcases the region's versatility. This wine is a harmonious blend of vibrancy and sophistication, making it perfect for casual sipping or pairing with a range of dishes, from fresh seafood to a simple goat cheese salad. It’s approachable enough for those new to the varietal yet complex enough to satisfy seasoned wine lovers.
5. Best Santa Barbara County White Wine
Diatom | Santa Barbara Chardonnay 2023
Varietal: Chardonnay
Region: Santa Barbara County, California
Tasting Notes: This Chardonnay from Diatom is as pure and refreshing as it gets. The wine opens with fresh citrus aromas—think Meyer lemon and green apple—followed by a mineral-driven palate of wet stone and bright acidity. The mouthfeel is crisp and clean, with hints of tropical fruit that come through as the wine warms in the glass. The finish is mouthwatering, leaving a subtle, fresh herbal note that invites you back for another sip.
Why We Love it: Diatom’s commitment to a minimalist winemaking style allows the true character of the Santa Barbara terroir to shine through. This is a wine that speaks to those who appreciate precision and clarity in their Chardonnay. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys a lean, refreshing wine that’s ideal for pairing with oysters, crab, or a light summer salad.
6. Best Value White Wine
Kendall-Jackson | Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay 2023
Varietal: Chardonnay
Region: California, USA
Tasting Notes: Kendall-Jackson’s Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay 2023 is a delightful expression of tropical fruit, offering vibrant aromas of pineapple, citrus, and a touch of vanilla bean. On the palate, it’s rich and creamy, with layers of ripe fruit—think golden apple and peach—intertwined with a delicate oak influence that adds depth. The wine finishes with a smooth, rounded texture, leaving a light but lingering sweetness.
Why We Love it: This Chardonnay offers incredible value for the price, delivering all the richness and complexity you’d expect from a higher-end wine without the hefty price tag. It’s perfect for everyday occasions, offering a friendly balance of fruit and creaminess that pairs effortlessly with everything from roasted chicken to a creamy pasta dish. Kendall-Jackson’s consistent quality shines through once again with this accessible gem.
7. Best White Wine Under $20
Murphy-Goode | North Coast Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: North Coast, California
Tasting Notes: Murphy-Goode’s 2023 North Coast Sauvignon Blanc bursts with fresh aromas of grapefruit, lime zest, and green apple, setting the stage for a lively and refreshing palate. The wine has a vibrant citrus character, enhanced by tropical fruit notes of passionfruit and kiwi. Its crisp acidity provides a clean, refreshing finish, with a lingering note of minerality that keeps the wine feeling light and zesty.
Why We Love it: This Sauvignon Blanc proves that great wines don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Murphy-Goode delivers a wine that’s full of character—bright, fresh, and easy to love. It’s the perfect choice for casual sipping or pairing with a variety of dishes, from grilled shrimp to fresh salads. For a budget-friendly wine that’s as delicious as it is approachable, Murphy-Goode is a go-to.
8. Best White Wine Under $30
La Crema | Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Sonoma County, California
Tasting Notes: La Crema’s 2023 Sauvignon Blanc offers a delightful bouquet of citrus, melon, and tropical fruit. The palate is crisp and refreshing, with bright notes of lime, lemon zest, and a touch of passionfruit that make each sip feel invigorating. A balanced acidity adds structure, while the finish lingers with a subtle, mouthwatering minerality that’s both clean and satisfying.
Why We Love it: La Crema’s Sauvignon Blanc is a perfect example of how Sonoma County can produce wines that combine elegance and energy. This wine strikes a perfect balance between fruitiness and acidity, making it an ideal pairing for everything from seafood to goat cheese salads. At under $30, it’s a wine that delivers exceptional value, and it’s guaranteed to elevate any occasion.
9. Best Chardonnay
Copain | Skycrest Vineyard Chardonnay 2018
Varietal: Chardonnay
Region: Anderson Valley, California
Tasting Notes: Copain’s 2018 Skycrest Vineyard Chardonnay is a complex and refined wine, starting with aromas of pear, lemon zest, and toasted almond, which invite you into its layered profile. On the palate, the wine reveals rich flavors of ripe stone fruit, complemented by a creamy mouthfeel and delicate oak influence. The balanced acidity brings freshness and structure, while the finish lingers with a touch of nutty spice and citrus zest.
Why We Love it: This Chardonnay from Copain offers the perfect balance of richness and finesse, showcasing the best of Anderson Valley’s cool-climate terroir. With its layered complexity and nuanced flavors, it’s a wine that truly stands out among its peers. It’s an ideal match for roasted chicken, lobster, or even a decadent creamy pasta. The Skycrest Vineyard Chardonnay is the kind of wine that shows how much craftsmanship and attention to detail can shape a truly special bottle.
10. Best Sauvignon Blanc
Stonestreet Estate | Aurora Point Sauvignon Blanc 2016
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Alexander Valley, California
Tasting Notes: Stonestreet’s 2016 Aurora Point Sauvignon Blanc is a captivating wine that opens with aromas of grapefruit, guava, and a hint of flinty minerality. The palate is full-bodied and textured, with a rich mouthfeel that still maintains vibrant acidity. Flavors of tropical fruit and citrus are balanced by a subtle herbal note, while the finish is long, with a touch of spice and stone fruit that lingers.
Why We Love it: This Sauvignon Blanc is a stunning example of how the Alexander Valley can produce wines that are both powerful and elegant. Stonestreet has created a wine that offers both depth and freshness, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate a wine with substance. It pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, roasted vegetables, or soft cheeses, and it’s sure to impress anyone who’s seeking a more sophisticated expression of Sauvignon Blanc.
11. Best Pinot Gris
La Crema | Monterey Pinot Gris 2023
Varietal: Pinot Gris
Region: Monterey, California
Tasting Notes: La Crema’s 2023 Monterey Pinot Gris is fresh and fragrant, with aromas of ripe stone fruit, citrus zest, and a delicate touch of honeysuckle. The wine offers a lively mouthfeel, with flavors of juicy pear, green apple, and a dash of lemon that make it incredibly refreshing. A crisp acidity adds vibrancy, while the finish is clean, leaving behind a subtle note of floral elegance.
Why We Love it: This Pinot Gris from La Crema is a perfect expression of Monterey’s cool-climate conditions. It’s an approachable and versatile wine that pairs effortlessly with a wide range of dishes, from light salads to fresh seafood or even a creamy risotto. With its crisp profile and vibrant flavors, it’s a go-to choice for anyone looking for an easy-drinking, delicious white wine.
12. Best Pinot Blanc
Willakenzie Estate | Pinot Blanc 2022
Varietal: Pinot Blanc
Region: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Tasting Notes: Willakenzie Estate’s 2022 Pinot Blanc is a beautifully balanced wine with aromas of ripe apple, pear, and white flowers. On the palate, it’s crisp and refreshing, with a lively acidity that frames flavors of citrus, green apple, and a touch of minerality. The wine’s clean, balanced finish leaves a lingering sense of freshness, making each sip feel more satisfying than the last.
Why We Love it: This Pinot Blanc is a true reflection of the Willamette Valley’s unique terroir—bright, clean, and effortlessly elegant. Willakenzie Estate has crafted a wine that showcases both freshness and complexity, offering something truly special for those who appreciate subtlety in their wines. It’s perfect for a light appetizer, a fresh salad, or even a grilled fish dish. The wine’s versatility and charm make it a standout in its category.
13. Best Riesling
Zeitlos | Alexander Valley Riesling 2021
Varietal: Riesling
Region: Alexander Valley, California
Tasting Notes: Zeitlos’s 2021 Alexander Valley Riesling is an exquisite wine that captures the varietal’s natural charm. It opens with aromas of apricot, honey, and jasmine, which lead into a lush, fruit-forward palate. Flavors of ripe stone fruit, such as peach and nectarine, are complemented by a hint of sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by the wine’s vibrant acidity. The finish is refreshing, with lingering notes of honey and citrus zest.
Why We Love it: This Riesling is a perfect example of why California’s Alexander Valley is a hidden gem for this varietal. Zeitlos has crafted a beautifully balanced wine that offers both fruitiness and elegance, making it a pleasure to drink on its own or paired with spicy dishes, Asian cuisine, or fresh fruit-based desserts. It’s a wine that shows off both the power and finesse that Riesling can offer when done right.
14. Best White Blend
Stonestreet Estate | Terrace Ridge White Blend 2017
Varietal: White Blend
Region: Alexander Valley, California
Tasting Notes: The 2017 Stonestreet Estate Terrace Ridge White Blend is a beautifully composed wine that offers a lush and complex profile. Aromas of citrus zest, tropical fruit, and delicate floral notes waft from the glass, inviting you to take a sip. On the palate, layers of pineapple, green apple, and lemon curd unfold, while a hint of spice and minerality adds depth. The wine’s texture is rich yet balanced, with a vibrant acidity that brightens the finish, which lingers with a touch of honey and white flowers.
Why We Love it: This white blend from Stonestreet is a masterclass in blending, where each varietal brings something unique to the table. The result is a wine that’s both complex and approachable, making it perfect for everything from casual sipping to pairing with more refined dishes like roasted poultry, seafood, or creamy cheeses. It’s a wine that truly showcases the artistry of blending, offering something new with every sip.
15. Best Viognier
Arrowood | Saralee’s Vineyard Viognier 2021
Varietal: Viognier
Region: Russian River Valley, California
Tasting Notes: Arrowood’s 2021 Saralee’s Vineyard Viognier is an aromatic delight, with an intoxicating bouquet of peach, apricot, and white flowers that draw you in. The palate is rich and lush, with flavors of ripe fruit, honeyed citrus, and a touch of vanilla that adds depth. Its mouthfeel is silky and round, yet balanced by vibrant acidity, while the finish is long and perfumed, leaving a lingering sensation of floral sweetness and a hint of spice.
Why We Love it: This Viognier from Arrowood is a true expression of the Russian River Valley’s ability to create wines with both elegance and depth. The richness of the fruit and the aromatic intensity make it a standout in the Viognier category, while its balanced acidity ensures that it’s never cloying. It pairs beautifully with rich seafood dishes, grilled chicken, or even a creamy risotto, making it a versatile choice for a range of occasions. Its luxurious texture and aromatic complexity make it an unforgettable wine.
16. Best South Africa White Wine
Capensis | Western Cape Chardonnay 2017
Varietal: Chardonnay
Region: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Tasting Notes: The 2017 Capensis Western Cape Chardonnay showcases the elegance of South Africa’s terroir. On the nose, it reveals notes of citrus, apple, and subtle spice, with a hint of vanilla oak that adds complexity. The palate is structured and rich, with flavors of ripe apple, lemon curd, and a touch of toasted almond. There’s a refreshing acidity that lifts the wine’s richness, while the finish is long, with a vibrant minerality and a whisper of spice.
Why We Love it: Capensis has crafted a Chardonnay that reflects the unique terroir of South Africa’s Western Cape. It’s a wine that combines the richness of the fruit with the finesse of the winemaking, creating a wine that feels both luxurious and well-balanced. Whether paired with roasted chicken, buttery lobster, or even a creamy pasta, this wine’s refined structure and complexity make it a perfect choice for any occasion where you want to impress.
17. Best Chilean White Wine
Dakél | Chardonnay 2021
Varietal: Chardonnay
Region: Casablanca Valley, Chile
Tasting Notes: The 2021 Dakél Chardonnay from Chile’s Casablanca Valley is a wine that blends richness with elegance. On the nose, it offers enticing aromas of tropical fruit, including pineapple and mango, along with hints of vanilla and toasted oak. The palate is round and creamy, with flavors of ripe fruit, buttered toast, and a subtle spice that adds depth. A crisp acidity provides balance, while the finish is long and smooth, leaving a lingering note of citrus and oak.
Why We Love it: Dakél’s Chardonnay offers a rich, expressive style that highlights the Casablanca Valley’s potential for producing high-quality wines. The combination of tropical fruit and toasty oak gives this wine a luxurious feel, while the bright acidity keeps it fresh and balanced. It’s perfect for pairing with grilled fish, creamy pasta, or a charcuterie board. This is a wine that feels both bold and refined, making it a standout from Chile’s ever-growing wine scene.
18. Best Oregon White Wine
Gran Moraine | Yamhill-Carlton Chardonnay 2021
Varietal: Chardonnay
Region: Yamhill-Carlton, Oregon
Tasting Notes: Gran Moraine’s 2021 Yamhill-Carlton Chardonnay is a beautifully crafted wine that exudes complexity and finesse. On the nose, it offers aromas of lemon zest, pear, and hazelnut, with a subtle hint of vanilla and toasty oak. The palate is rich yet balanced, with flavors of ripe stone fruit, citrus, and a touch of crème brûlée. A silky texture is complemented by a crisp acidity, giving the wine both weight and liveliness. The finish is long and clean, with lingering notes of citrus and a touch of minerality.
Why We Love it: This Chardonnay from Gran Moraine is a perfect example of the elegance and precision that Oregon’s Yamhill-Carlton region can offer. With its layered complexity, balanced acidity, and refined texture, it’s a wine that can stand up to hearty dishes like roasted chicken or a creamy seafood pasta. Gran Moraine has managed to capture the essence of Oregon Chardonnay, making this bottle a must-try for any wine lover seeking both finesse and depth.
19. Best New Zealand White Wine
Crowded House | Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
Tasting Notes: Crowded House’s 2023 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is the epitome of New Zealand’s vibrant Sauvignon Blanc style. The wine opens with a burst of passionfruit, lime, and gooseberry, with aromas that are both tropical and herbaceous. On the palate, it’s crisp and refreshing, with zesty citrus flavors that are balanced by a touch of green grass and minerality. The finish is clean and sharp, leaving a mouthwatering sensation that invites another sip.
Why We Love it: This Sauvignon Blanc captures the bold and zesty character that Marlborough is famous for. Crowded House has crafted a wine that’s both refreshing and full of personality, making it a perfect choice for warm-weather sipping. Whether you’re enjoying a plate of oysters, a fresh goat cheese salad, or just lounging on a sunny day, this wine is guaranteed to lift your spirits. It’s everything we love about New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc—vibrant, refreshing, and full of flavor.
20. Best Luxury White Wine
Stonestreet | Upper Barn Vineyard Chardonnay 2020
Varietal: Chardonnay
Region: Alexander Valley, California
Tasting Notes: The 2020 Stonestreet Upper Barn Vineyard Chardonnay is a truly exceptional wine that showcases the best of California’s winegrowing potential. It opens with lush aromas of peach, apricot, and honey, followed by a rich and opulent palate that reveals flavors of ripe fruit, and a touch of toasted oak. The wine is full-bodied with a silky texture, yet balanced by vibrant acidity that keeps the wine fresh. The finish is long and luxurious, with lingering notes of vanilla and citrus that invite you to take another sip.
Why We Love it: This Chardonnay is the epitome of luxury—rich, powerful, and sophisticated, yet elegantly balanced. Stonestreet’s Upper Barn Vineyard is one of the most iconic vineyard sites in Alexander Valley, and this wine perfectly reflects its high-quality fruit. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a moment of indulgence, this is a wine that will leave a lasting impression. Pair it with lobster, caviar, or any dish that’s worthy of such a luxurious wine. It’s a wine that’s truly in a class of its own.
Cheers to the Best White Wines
There you have it — a dazzling lineup of the 20 best white wines to sip, savor, and share this year. Whether you’re craving a vibrant Sauvignon Blanc, a creamy Chardonnay, or an adventurous and unusual white blend, these bottles deliver flavor, quality, and value at virtually any price point.
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