
New vs. Neutral vs. No Oak: How White Wines Find Their Style
Confused by oaky Chardonnay vs zesty steel-aged whites? Learn how new oak, neutral oak, and no oak shape white wine styles so you can buy smarter.

Confused by oaky Chardonnay vs zesty steel-aged whites? Learn how new oak, neutral oak, and no oak shape white wine styles so you can buy smarter.

From Chardonnay to Sauvignon Blanc, here’s how new, neutral, or no oak shapes white wine texture, acidity, and flavor—plus trends from California to Burgundy.

New vs. neutral vs. no oak for white wine—what it means in the glass. A quick guide to styles, grapes, and shopping cues, inspired by Dr. Vinny.

Winehog’s Steen Öhman visits micro-négociant Skyaasen in Meursault. Elegant, delicate Aligoté and Bouzeron show crisp structure and refined fruit.

Winehog’s Steen Öhman spotlights Skyaasen, a Meursault micro‑négociant. Expect delicate, refined Aligoté and Bouzeron with crisp structure and real charm.

China’s wine market heads into the Year of the Horse with a white wine surge, inventive styles like Blanc de Noirs, and value buys from $7–$100. Plus regional pressure.

China’s Year of the Horse brings a white wine surge, creative Blanc de Noirs, sharper value across tiers, and rising regional pride reshaping how the country drinks.