5 Things To Know About Chardonnay

One of the world’s most popular wines, Chardonnay is a white wine originating from Burgundy.  Flavors range from clean and crisp with a hint of varietal flavor to rich and complex, with vanilla, butter and oak. Think you know all about Chardonnay? Test your knowledge with these five facts.

5 Chardonnay Facts

1. It has French twins: French Chablis and White Burgundy are both made from Chardonnay grapes.  The Chablis region is Northern Burgundy, next to the Champagne region, and this cool-climate produces a crisp, steely wine. White Burgundy comes from more southern parts of the region, and the extra warmth means fruitier flavors.
2. It loves to sparkle: Chardonnay is a major component in many Champagnes and sparkling wines. It is often the only grape used in Blanc de Blancs.
3. It’s a chameleon: Crisp and lean, tropical and fruity, toasty and oaky–Chardonnay can be made in many different styles.  Malolactic fermentation can give it a buttery, creamy texture.  In a cooler climate it produces a more mineral-ly wine.  Aging in oak, stainless steel or a mixture of the two greatly changes what is in your glass.
4. It is easy to pair: Buttery Chardonnay pairs with buttery foods, like succulent lobster with melted butter.  Oaky Chardonnays go with smoky grilled foods.  Crisp and lean Chardonnay goes well with a lot things, including seafood or roast chicken and veggies.
5. It has haters: In some circles, “ABC” stands for “Anything But Chardonnay.” This was in response California Chardonnay for a time becoming a uniform mixture of butter and oak, based on the success of Kendall Jackson’s version.  You can now easily find California Chardonnay made in a wide variety of styles.

Chardonnay Grapes at El Molino Winery in Napa Valley.

We say cheers to this versatile favorite. View our monthly wine club levels and join today to begin exploring wine country.