What is the significance of oak in Chardonnay winemaking?

Oak has a very significant role in determining the character of many Chardonnay wines, with winemakers applying different techniques for example, barrel fermentation and aging, to achieve desired flavor profiles. With new oak barrels enhancing flavors of vanilla, toast, and spice in Chardonnay, the wines will have more robustness and complexity. Another advantage of the oak exposure is associated with the development of a texture akin to cream, which also becomes an element of the structure decompressed during long-term aging and, therefore, oak is a vital part of the premium Chardonnay production.