Anything but Chardonnay?
Some people love Chardonnay, others hate it. Is it buttery and creamy? Yes. Is it lean and fresh? Yes. Is it sparkling and age worthy? You betcha! Chardonnay is the most planted white grape in the world for a reason. Find one to fit your style.
Wine Quiz
Wines from Chablis, France, are made with Chardonnay grapes. What unique characteristic would you expect from Chardonnay grown in this cool-climate region of France?
- Prominent buttery and oaky notes
- High acidity with green apple flavors
- Tropical fruit flavors with low acidity
- Aromas of sweet vanilla and caramel
Scroll down to find out!
The Most Popular White Grape
Chardonnay is planted in every winemaking country on earth! From its homeland in Burgundy to the far corners of the earth, this versatile grape has something for everyone.
White Burgundy’s Competition
New Zealand isn’t just about Sauvignon Blanc. It produces some of the world’s finest Chardonnays that rival Burgundy. Check out our video on New Zealand Chardonnay, featured in the May edition of the Wine Folly Club, to learn more.
Way, Way Out there
New Zealand is so far flung and isolated that sometimes it’s left out on world maps! But this amazing country is worth remembering especially for its fantastic wines. While known for Sauvignon Blanc, it also produces amazing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and many other treasures.
Wine Quiz Answer
Answer – #2
Chardonnay can grow in cool and warm climates. In warmer climates, you can expect riper fruit flavors, like pineapple. When Chardonnay is aged in oak, you will find vanilla and smoky aromas. When Chardonnay undergoes Malolactic Fermentation, you can expect buttery and creamy notes too. Chablis is cool, and they use little oak, hence the wines are high in acid with sharp green apple notes.