The white wine is fresh, vibrant and versatile. Perfect for sharing a light meal, refreshing in summer or pairing with fish and seafood. But when choosing a bottle, many people focus on a specific piece of information that appears on the label: the alcohol content. Knowing the alcohol content of a white wine is not only a matter of curiosity, it also tells you a lot about its character, its style and even the best time to enjoy it.
Read on and find out all about the alcohol content of white wine, what determines it, how it relates to its taste and, of course, what you can expect from the handcrafted white wines of Bodegas Can Vidalet, produced in Pollença, Mallorca.
Typical graduation of white wine
In general terms, white wines have an alcohol content ranging from 11 to 14%. This number indicates the percentage of alcohol present in the liquid, and is measured as “alcohol content” (% vol.). The higher this percentage, the more body, warmth and persistence the wine will have.
At Bodegas Can Vidalet, the artisanal white wines are in a very well-balanced range, with a degree of alcohol of between 12% and 13.5% vol. Depending on the type of wine and the vintage year, This allows us to preserve all the vivacity that a good Mediterranean white should have, without giving up structure or elegance. For example:
- Blanc de Negres 2023: 13 % vol.
- Blanc de Blanca 2023: 12,5 % vol.
- Ses Pedres 2023: 12 % vol.
- Son Blanc 2022: 13,5 % vol.
If you want to buy white wine from Mallorca, know all of them and discover their aromatic notes and ideal pairings, consult the collection of Can Vidalet wineries.
Does white wine or red wine have higher alcoholic content?
Although there is no rigid or established rule, in general, red wines tend to have a higher alcohol content than white wines. This is due to factors such as:
- Many red grape varieties accumulate more sugar as they mature, resulting in more intense fermentation.
- Reds tend to ferment and macerate longer, favoring a more complete conversion of sugar into alcohol.
- In styles such as crianza or reserva, reds can also have more body and, therefore, higher alcohol content.
Even so, there are whites that can match or even surpass some reds. Especially those that ferment in barrels or come from warm climates such as the Mediterranean, where grapes ripen with more sugar.
What affects the alcohol content of white wine
The percentage of alcohol in a white wine is not improvised or given by chance. It is the result of key decisions in the vineyard and in the winery. Here are the main factors:
Type of grape
Each grape variety has a different capacity to accumulate sugar, and this directly affects the percentage of alcohol that the wine can reach. For example, grapes such as Chardonnay or Viognier tend to give more structured and alcoholic wines, while others, such as Vermentino or Sauvignon Blanc, offer fresher and lighter profiles.
At Bodegas Can Vidalet we grow both local and international varieties, always seeking a natural balance between freshness and complexity.
Grape maturity at harvest
The date on which the grapes are harvested also has an influence. The riper the grapes are, the more sugar they contain, and the more alcohol can be generated during fermentation. An early harvest gives wines that are more acidic and low in alcohol, while a late harvest tends to raise the alcohol content.
Climate and vineyard location
In warm climates, such as Mallorca, the grapes ripen faster, which can increase the alcohol content. But in Can Vidalet, thanks to its location among the mountains in the north of the island, a perfect balance between sun and freshness is achieved, resulting in wines with character, but without excesses.
Winemaking method
The style that the winemaker is looking for also influences, a young and fresh white wine is fermented differently than one aged on lees or aged in barrels. At Bodegas Can Vidalet we use practices that respect the natural rhythm of the wine.
How does the alcohol content of white wine affects its taste
The alcohol content of wine is not only felt, but also tasted. Alcohol provides body, a sensation of volume in the mouth and even a certain tactile sweetness. But if it is not well integrated, it can overheat or even saturate the palate, so it is key to find the right balance.
A 12% white wine can be lighter, refreshing and acidic. Ideal for an aperitif or to accompany light dishes. While a 13.5% white wine will have more texture, structure and persistence. Perfect for pairing with cheeses, oily fish or white meats.
At Can Vidalet, each wine is designed so that the alcohol content is harmoniously integrated with the aromas, acidity and texture. We want the first sip to be unforgettable... and the second one to come without thinking about it.
If you want to buy white wine from Mallorca, visit us at Bodegas Can Vidalet.
Choosing a white wine according to its alcohol content
Alcohol content has a direct impact on the tasting experience. A white wine of 11% is not the same as one of 13.5%, for example:
- Wines with lower alcohol content: They are usually lighter, fresher and easier to drink. Ideal for appetizers, light dishes, or for those who are looking for something more casual.
- Wines with higher alcoholic content: They provide a sensation of body, volume and warmth. They usually have more structure and persistence. Perfect for pairing with oily fish, cured cheeses or white meats.
In addition, alcohol also acts as a carrier of aromas and flavors. A well-balanced wine, even with 13.5%, can be silky and harmonious, without being aggressive or heavy.
Taste the best white wines with Can Vidalet Winery
At Bodegas Can Vidalet, we love to talk about wine... but, even more, we love to share it. If you want to buy Mallorcan white wine, contact us and discover the charm of white wine, each bottle is a story told from the vineyard, with respect for the Mallorcan landscape and a passion that is noticeable in every sip.
Write us and ask us or come and meet us in Pollença. We will welcome you with open arms and a glass of wine in hand.