Chardonnay

Chardonnay is one of the most popular and widespread white wine grape varieties in the world (by planted area, second among whites only to Airén), often called the “queen of white wines”. It originates in the French region of Burgundy, and today it is grown in almost every wine-producing country.

The main feature of Chardonnay is its exceptional flexibility and ability to reflect both the terroir and the hand of the winemaker. In itself the variety has a fairly neutral flavour, so it is precisely the style of winemaking that defines the character of the wine. In a cool climate and without oak, fresh, light, mineral wines are made from it with notes of green apple, pear, and citrus (the classic being Chablis). In a warmer climate and with ageing in oak barrels, Chardonnay becomes full-bodied, rich, with a buttery, creamy texture and notes of vanilla, tropical fruit, and toasted bread (often aided by malolactic fermentation). Chardonnay is also one of the three key varieties for producing champagne. This versatility makes it a favourite of winemakers and consumers. Wines of it suit fish, seafood, poultry, creamy dishes, and cheeses. Chardonnay is the variety that best demonstrates all the diversity of the world of white wine.