Chardonnay is a really interesting grape varietal because it’s extremely easy to grow and can thrive in a wide variety of climates. Chardonnay can take on many different characteristics, and there are several different winemaking techniques and methods used to make this type of wine.
In places like California, you’ll often find Chardonnay to be more “buttery” or “oaky” in flavor. In places like France, you’ll find that the Chardonnay has more minerality and higher acid. While there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to Chardonnay, people tend to have strong opinions and preferences.
If you’ve written off Chardonnay or you’re an “ABC” kind of person (Anything-But-Chardonnay), read through this post and consider giving it another chance. More often than not, I find that people DO like Chardonnay when they find a style they enjoy. Whether it’s a Chablis, a white Burgundy, or a buttery California Chardonnay, there’s so much to explore and learn when it comes to this grape varietal. Cheers!
Overview
Other Names
- White Burgundy
- Chablis
Facts
- Chardonnay can grow well in a wide variety of climates. It doesn’t necessarily need a cool or warm climate to do well.
- Not all Chardonnay is buttery. This is a very common style of Chardonnay in California, but you won’t find that in France.
- The Chardonnay grape originated in Burgundy, France.
- Chardonnay is a major component in sparkling wines and Champagne. If you ever seen the term ” Blanc de Blancs” on a bottle of sparkling wine, that means it’s made up of all Chardonnay.
- Some of the most expensive wines in the world are Chardonnay.
- Chardonnay should be served lightly chilled. The ideal temperature for serving Chardonnay is between 50-55 degrees. If it is too cold, the aromas and the flavors are muted.
Food Pairings
Chardonnay can pair with a wide variety of dishes because the wine itself can vary in style. If you’re drinking a buttery Chardonnay, you may want to pair it with a heartier dish like salmon or lobster. If you’re drinking a Chardonnay with high acid and minerality, you may want to consider some creamier cheeses like brie or ricotta. Regardless of what type of Chardonnay you are drinking, all of these foods listed below are safe bets.
- Appetizers
- Popcorn
- Crostini
- Cheeses like Brie or Ricotta
- Summer Salads
- Entrées
- Risotto
- Seafood:
- Sea Scallops
- Salmon
- Lobster
- Shrimp
- Turkey (think Thanksgiving Dinner)
Bottle Recommendations
Buttery and Oaky
Under $20 Wines
- La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay // $13.99
- Markham Chardonnay Napa // $14.99
- William Hill Chardonnay Napa Valley // $19.49
Splurge Wines
- Rombauer Chardonnay // $37.99
- Nickel & Nickel Chardonnay // $47.99
- Cakebread Chardonnay Reserve // $71.99
Light and Earthy
Under $20 Wines
- Drouhin Macon Villages // $16.49
- Louis Jadot Pouilly-Fuisse // $19.97
- Luquet Macon Villages Condemine // $18.99
Splurge Wines
- Latour Puligny-Montrachet // $64.99
- Flowers Chardonnay Sonoma // $44.99
- Debeaune Special Selection Pouilly Fuisse // $36.99
Producers I Love
Below are several Chardonnay producers I know and love. We have visited every single one of these wineries, so I feel very confident in my recommendations. While these Chardonnays will vary in style and flavor, they are all incredible and offer something unique.
Sonoma
Napa
Santa Barbara
Oregon
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