Chardonnay Wines

Chardonnay is one of the most popular grapes in the world thanks to its chameleon-like ability to adapt to most climates and winemaking techniques. In cooler climates it tends to produce crisp, elegant white wines with apple, pear and citrus notes and ample acidity. In warmer regions Chardonnay wines typically exude ripe tropical fruit notes and are often fermented and aged in oak barrels to add complexity and enticing spicy and toasty notes.

Key Chardonnay Wine Regions

Today Chardonnay wines are made all over the world, but the most famous region is still Burgundy in France that produces the best Chardonnay wine . Burgundian Chardonnay ranges from light, high acidity Chablis made in the cooler north of the region to richer and softer styles from the warmer Maconnais in the south. Other important Chardonnay wines come from the Napa Valley in California where they are often made in a powerful oaked style with plenty of tannins and vanilla spice.

Chardonnay Food Pairings

Chardonnay wines are very versatile when it comes to food pairings thanks to their wide variety of styles. Crisp and light Chardonnay wines like Chablis pair well with seafood, fish, sushi, and most cheeses. Richer oaked Chardonnays can stand up to fuller-flavoured dishes like risottos, creamy chicken dishes, and hearty lasagne and moussaka.