White Wines for the Cellar

A select group of ageable white grapes and styles will reward your patience

Three bottles of ageable white and rosé wines at Selby’s restaurant in Atherton, California
Deep cellars at restaurants such as Selby’s in Atherton, Calif., offer the chance to try well-aged white wines. (Alanna Hale)

While most white wines are enjoyable on release for their fresh, fruity characteristics and palate-cleansing acidity, others will improve with time in the bottle—including some that can boast well-earned reputations for developing over decades. From white Burgundy to German Riesling and Sauternes to Tokaji, these dry and sweet white wine varieties can all benefit from cellar time. Get to know some of the top ageworthy categories here, as well as top recommendations from Wine Spectator editors!

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