White Wines with a Silver Lining: What Judges Think Will Sell Next

The smart money in white wine isn't always where you'd expect. Whilst France and New Zealand continue their commercial dominance, the 2025 IWSC results reveal surprising opportunities emerging from unexpected corners of the wine world. With 17% of white wine entries earning Silver medals, these results offer a roadmap to tomorrow's must-have bottles for buyers willing to look beyond the obvious.

The Safe Bets (That Still Pay Off)

France dominated with 51 Silver medals, led by Burgundy's impressive 24 and Alsace adding 7 more. New Zealand's 39 Silvers prove that Marlborough and Central Otago remain bankable investments. These regions offer commercial security, established consumer recognition and proven track records.

The Hidden Value Goldmine

Australia's 16 Silver medals represent a commercial goldmine that many are overlooking. "There is so much competent winemaking," observed Alex Hunt MW, "Australia offers exceptional value for money at the mid to fine level." With strong showings in Riesling, Semillon and Chardonnay, Australian whites deliver quality without premium pricing.

The Next Big Thing: Japanese Chardonnay

Japan's Chardonnay caught serious attention from judges. Mick O'Connell MW described these wines as "already very accomplished with huge potential going forward," citing their alignment with food culture and elegance - ideal for the fine dining market. For forward-thinking buyers, Japanese whites represent an opportunity to get ahead of the curve.

Greece's Assyrtiko is another hero variety ready for broader markets. O'Connell highlighted "multiple Silvers not just from Santorini but Macedonia," suggesting this grape's commercial potential extends beyond its island origins. Think of it as Albariño 2.0 - distinctive, food-friendly and ready for its breakout moment.

The Mediterranean Wave

Sicilian whites drew particular praise from Victoria Mason MW for their "vibrancy, liveliness and freshness, modest alcohol levels and citrus character with a salty edge." These wines align perfectly with current consumer preferences for lighter yet expressive styles. Italy secured 19 Silver medals overall, whilst Portugal's 15 Silver medals suggest similar opportunities for a change in guard from red to white.

The Wildcard Markets

Brazil and Moldova each secured one Silver medal - small numbers that hint at big potential. These are the regions where adventurous buyers can find exceptional value and compelling stories before everyone else catches on.

The Grape Opportunity

Chardonnay's 76 Silver medals confirm its continued commercial dominance. But the real opportunities lie in white varietals like Sauvignon Blanc (44), Riesling (18), Albariño (10) and Vermentino (8), which offer pathways to differentiation in an increasingly crowded market.

Whether you opt to play it safe with French and New Zealand classics, hunt for value in Australia or place strategic bets on Japan, Greece and Sicily, the future belongs to those who can spot tomorrow's trends in today's winners

Explore the silver medal winning whites that recieved 94 and 93 points below. Discover the full list of Silver medal white wines on our website.