Chardonnay Grape
The Chardonnay grape is a green skinned grape variety of Vitis Vinifera used to make white wine. The Chardonnay grape is thought to have originated in the Burgundy region of France, but is now grown in nearly every wine growing region around the world making it one of the most popular and widely planted grape varieties in the world. In fact, it is the 2nd most planted white grape variety behind Airén, a Spanish grape variety.
Some of the most famous regions where Chardonnay is grown include:
- Burgundy, France
- Chablis, France
- Champagne, France
- California (Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino)
- Australia
The Chardonnay grape is made into both still wine and sparkling wine, of which the most famous example is Champagne. Chardonnay is vinified in many different styles and may be aged in or out of oak barrels.
While Chardonnay can benefit from some bottle aging, most are typically meant to be drunk young and can be consumed immediately upon purchase.
Chardonnay that has gone through malolactic fermentation and/or aged in new oak barrels will have a less crisp, more toasty and buttery flavor, while those that do not will be more crisp. All should exhibit some citrus fruit flavors with hints of melon.
Chardonnay is typically served chilled (see: Wine Serving Temperature). As is typical of many white wines, Chardonnay pairs well with fish and chicken and foods served with butter or cream sauces.
Other Names for Chardonnay
Chardonnay may also be known by the following names:
- Aubaine
- Beaunois
- Gamay Blanc
- Melon Blanc
More Information About Chardonnay
- Chardonnay, from Wikipedia
