If you like this, try…
Wines like Verdejo
Rueda’s white grape: citrusy and herbal with a distinctive bitter-almond finish. Below: what to try next, grouped by the direction you want to travel.
Refine
What do you like about Verdejo?
Optional — the results below already work without it. But “I like Malbec” is at least four different preferences wearing one name, and saying which one you mean changes the answer substantially. Only qualities this wine actually has are offered.
What these words mean
- The tropical fruit
- Passionfruit, mango, pineapple, guava. It comes from riper fruit and warmer sites, and it is the difference between Marlborough and Sancerre in the same grape.
- How light it is
- A wine you can drink without it feeling like a commitment. Usually lower in alcohol as well as lighter in the mouth.
- That it is not too strong
- Alcohol you notice as warmth at the back of the throat. Some people find it a pleasant part of a big red and some find it tiring.
- The herbal, green side
- Grass, blackcurrant leaf, green pepper, mint. It divides people more sharply than almost any other character.
- How aromatic it is
- Some grapes announce themselves from across the room — Gewürztraminer, Muscat, Sauvignon Blanc. Others are far quieter, and quiet is not the same as dull.
- That it is properly dry
- No perceptible sugar at all. Almost all red wine is dry and a good deal of white wine is not, which is why this is a more useful thing to say about a white than about a red.
Looking for something keeping the herbal, green edge, while moving away from too light or thin, too austere, too green or grassy and too alcoholic or warming.
- You said you like the herbal, green edge and that it is too green or grassy. Both are about herbal / green character, so they pull the same axis in opposite directions — the dislike is applied and the like is set aside.
Based on what you said
Ranked against the qualities you named rather than against the wine as a whole. The directions below are refined the same way.
Pedro Ximénez
Both come from the same country.
- Has noticeably less of the herbal, green edge.
- Substantially less light or thin.
- Substantially less austere.
- Substantially less green or grassy.
- Substantially less alcoholic or warming.
Malvasia
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
- Has noticeably less of the herbal, green edge.
- Substantially less light or thin.
- Substantially less austere.
- Substantially less green or grassy.
- Substantially less alcoholic or warming.
Alsace Pinot Gris
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
- Has noticeably less of the herbal, green edge.
- Substantially less light or thin.
- Substantially less austere.
- Substantially less green or grassy.
- Substantially less alcoholic or warming.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
- Has noticeably less of the herbal, green edge.
- Substantially less light or thin.
- Substantially less austere.
- Substantially less green or grassy.
- Substantially less alcoholic or warming.
Gewürztraminer
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
- Has noticeably less of the herbal, green edge.
- Substantially less light or thin.
- Substantially less austere.
- Substantially less green or grassy.
- Substantially less alcoholic or warming.
Bual
Bual scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
- Has noticeably less of the herbal, green edge.
- Substantially less light or thin.
- Substantially less austere.
- Substantially less green or grassy.
- Substantially less alcoholic or warming.
Petit Manseng
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
- Has noticeably less of the herbal, green edge.
- Substantially less light or thin.
- Substantially less austere.
- Substantially less green or grassy.
- Substantially less alcoholic or warming.
Condrieu
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
- Has noticeably less of the herbal, green edge.
- Substantially less light or thin.
- Substantially less austere.
- Substantially less green or grassy.
- Substantially less alcoholic or warming.
Closest overall
Nearest neighbours, no change of direction.
Closest matches
The nearest overall neighbours across structure and flavour, with no deliberate change of direction.
Pedro Ximénez
Both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be sweeter, and riper and less green.
Malvasia
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Alsace Pinot Gris
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Different grape, similar feel
Deliberately excludes the variety you already know, to find a genuinely new wine that fills the same role.
Pedro Ximénez
Both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be sweeter, and riper and less green.
Malvasia
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Alsace Pinot Gris
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Change the structure
Same idea, different weight, grip or freshness.
Similar but lighter
Keeps the character but reduces weight, alcohol and density in the mouth.
Welsh white wine
Welsh white wine scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and lighter in alcohol.
Riesling
Riesling scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and lighter in alcohol.
Pedro Ximénez
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be sweeter, and riper and less green.
Malvasia
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and riper and less green.
Similar but lower in alcohol
Holds the character and the weight where it can, and moves specifically on strength. Note that below about 11% the choices narrow sharply, and below 5% they are mostly a different category rather than a lighter version of the same one.
Spätlese
Spätlese scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter in alcohol, and lighter.
Petit Manseng
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter in alcohol, and riper and less green.
Furmint
Furmint scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter in alcohol, and riper and less green.
Petite Arvine
Petite Arvine scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and lighter in alcohol.
Similar but fuller
Keeps the character but adds weight, concentration and mouthfeel.
Pedro Ximénez
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be sweeter, and riper and less green.
Condrieu
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and drier.
Viognier
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and drier.
Malvasia
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and riper and less green.
Similar but less tannic
For readers who find firm reds drying. Reduces tannic grip while holding flavour and weight roughly steady.
Nothing in WineHQ's catalogue makes this move meaningfully from here. These are the closest wines otherwise, but do not expect them to deliver what you asked for — the honest answer is that this style does not have a good neighbour in that direction.
Pedro Ximénez
Both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be sweeter, and riper and less green.
Alsace Pinot Gris
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Gewürztraminer
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Similar but more structured
More tannic architecture, for food or for ageing.
Malvasia
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Kisi
Kisi scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and riper and less green.
Friuli white
Friuli white scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and riper and less green.
Albana
Albana scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and lighter in alcohol.
Similar but fresher
Raises acidity and overall lift, usually by moving to a cooler-climate expression.
Petit Manseng
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Petite Arvine
Petite Arvine scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and riper and less green.
Furmint
Furmint scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter in alcohol, and riper and less green.
Valais Petite Arvine
Valais Petite Arvine scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and riper and less green.
Similar but softer
Lowers acidity and sharpness in favour of a broader, gentler feel.
Pedro Ximénez
Both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be sweeter, and riper and less green.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Malvasia
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Alsace Pinot Gris
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
The sparkling version
Moves to a sparkling expression while holding the flavour and weight as close as possible.
Cava
Both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and lighter in alcohol.
Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore
Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and lighter in alcohol.
Corpinnat
Both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and lighter in alcohol.
Franciacorta
Franciacorta scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and lighter in alcohol.
Similar but sweeter
Adds perceptible sweetness, which also softens acidity and chilli heat.
Marsala
The structural profile is close across body, acidity and tannin.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Madeira
The structural profile is close across body, acidity and tannin.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
White Port
The structural profile is close across body, acidity and tannin.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Malvasia
The structural profile is close across body, acidity and tannin.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Change the flavour
Same shape, different aromatic character.
Similar but less oaky
One of the commonest requests in wine. Strips oak influence while holding grape character and weight.
Pedro Ximénez
Both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be sweeter, and riper and less green.
Malvasia
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Bual
Bual scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Similar but more oaky
Adds barrel character, toast and a creamier texture.
California Chardonnay
California Chardonnay scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and drier.
Furmint
Furmint scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter in alcohol, and riper and less green.
Australian Chardonnay
Australian Chardonnay scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and riper and less green.
Chilean Chardonnay
Chilean Chardonnay scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and riper and less green.
Similar but more aromatic
More to smell before you taste — floral, fruity or spiced aromatics.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Gewürztraminer
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Condrieu
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and drier.
Viognier
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and drier.
Similar but more restrained
For readers who find intensely aromatic wines tiring over a whole glass. Keeps the structure, turns the volume down.
Pedro Ximénez
Both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be sweeter, and riper and less green.
Bual
Bual scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
California Chardonnay
California Chardonnay scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and drier.
Furmint
Furmint scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter in alcohol, and riper and less green.
Similar but more floral
Pushes specifically towards rose, violet, blossom and elderflower character.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Gewürztraminer
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Condrieu
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and drier.
Viognier
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and drier.
Similar but more savoury
Moves away from primary fruit towards earth, herb, meat and umami character.
Bual
Bual scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Sercial
Sercial scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be lighter, and riper and less green.
Savennières
Savennières scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and riper and less green.
Santorini Assyrtiko
Santorini Assyrtiko scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and riper and less green.
Similar but fruitier
More obvious, generous fruit flavour, usually from a warmer climate.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Gewürztraminer
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Petit Manseng
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Condrieu
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and drier.
Change the mood
Safer, stranger, cheaper or more serious.
A safe next step
Well-known wines that are widely available and unlikely to surprise anyone.
California Chardonnay
California Chardonnay scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and drier.
Australian Chardonnay
Australian Chardonnay scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and riper and less green.
South African Chenin Blanc
South African Chenin Blanc scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and riper and less green.
White Burgundy
White Burgundy scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and riper and less green.
Something more adventurous
Less familiar wines that occupy similar territory — the interesting end of the shelf.
Pedro Ximénez
Both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be sweeter, and riper and less green.
Malvasia
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Alsace Pinot Gris
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
A better-value alternative
Wines that occupy similar sensory territory from regions carrying less price premium. WineHQ does not hold live prices, so this reasons from regional reputation and demand rather than from a price feed — treat it as a lead, not a quote.
Pedro Ximénez
Both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be sweeter, and riper and less green.
Malvasia
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Alsace Pinot Gris
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
Muscat of Alexandria
They occupy similar territory for weight and structure, and both come from the same country.
Expect: Expect it to be riper and less green, and lighter.
A step up
The benchmark expressions of the same territory, usually with more concentration, structure and ageing potential.
Australian Chardonnay
Australian Chardonnay scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and lighter.
South African Chenin Blanc
South African Chenin Blanc scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and lighter.
White Burgundy
White Burgundy scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and lighter.
Santorini Assyrtiko
Santorini Assyrtiko scores closest to Verdejo across WineHQ’s taste dimensions.
Expect: Expect it to be drier, and lighter.
Each suggestion is scored across sixteen taste dimensions, weighted so that structure matters more than flavour, and adjusted for whether the wine actually moves in the direction you asked for. Curated links from an editor carry extra weight — but only when the editor tagged them for this direction. Nothing here is a black box; see the taste model for the full method.