Introduction

Chardonnay is one of the world’s most popular grape varieties and is grown in many wine regions around the world. It is known for its versatility and is often called the “queen of white wines”. In this blog post, we will explore why Chardonnay is so versatile and how it can be paired with a wide variety of foods. We will also discuss the different styles of Chardonnay and recommend some of the best Chardonnays to try. So sit back, pour yourself a glass of Chardonnay, and read on to find out why this grape is so special.

What is Chardonnay?

Chardonnay is a white grape variety that is believed to have originated in the Burgundy region of France. Today, it is grown all over the world, from California to New Zealand. It is a versatile grape that can be made into different styles of wine, from crisp and acidic to rich and buttery.

Chardonnay wines are typically unoaked or oaked. An unoaked Chardonnay is crisp, light, and refreshing, with flavors of lemon, green apple, and citrus. An oaked Chardonnay is richer and creamier, with flavors of vanilla, butterscotch, and toast. The oak aging can also add a smoky or spicy note to the wine. The oak can be a divisive issue among wine drinkers, with some preferring unoaked Chardonnays and others favoring oaked ones.

Chardonnay Tasting Notes

Chardonnay wines can have a wide range of tasting notes depending on the region, winemaker, and style of the wine. Here are some general tasting notes for both unoaked and oaked Chardonnays:

Chardonnay also has a wide range of aromas, from floral to fruity to spicy. Some common aromas you might find in Chardonnay are:

• Floral: jasmine, rose, hibiscus
• Fruity: lemon, pear, apple, peach
• Spicy: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger

Pairing Chardonnay with Food

One of the reasons Chardonnay is so versatile is because it can be paired with a wide variety of foods. Here are some food pairings that work well with both unoaked and oaked Chardonnays:

Unoaked Chardonnay Pairings

• Sushi and sashimi
• Ceviche
• Grilled shrimp or scallops
• Roasted or grilled chicken
• Pasta with light cream sauce

Oaked Chardonnay Pairings

• Lobster or crab
• Butternut squash soup
• Roasted pork or ham
• Grilled salmon or other fatty fish
• Roast turkey with gravy

Chardonnay can also be paired with many types of cheese, including brie, camembert, and cheddar. It also pairs well with creamy sauces and dishes with butter or cream. When in doubt, a glass of Chardonnay is a safe bet for most meals.

Different Styles of Chardonnay

As mentioned earlier, Chardonnay can be made into different styles of wine depending on how it is handled in the winemaking process. Here are some of the most common styles:

Unoaked Chardonnay

Unoaked Chardonnay is typically made in stainless steel tanks or neutral oak barrels. This allows the fruit flavors and aromas to shine through without the influence of oak. These wines are crisp, light, and refreshing, with high acidity and lower alcohol levels. They are best enjoyed young and are often served chilled.

Oaked Chardonnay

Oaked Chardonnay is typically made in oak barrels, which can add flavors of vanilla, butterscotch, and toast to the wine. The oak can also give the wine a creamier texture and a more golden color. Oaked Chardonnays are often aged for a longer period of time, which can give them a more complex flavor profile. These wines are best served slightly warmer than unoaked Chardonnays to bring out their full flavor.

Blanc de Blanc

Blanc de Blanc is a type of sparkling wine made entirely from Chardonnay grapes. These wines are typically crisp, light, and refreshing, with flavors of citrus and green apple. They are a great choice for a celebratory toast or a light summer drink.

Chablis

Chablis is a region in France that is known for its unoaked Chardonnay wines. These wines are crisp, dry, and acidic, with flavors of green apple and citrus. Chablis is a great choice for seafood dishes and other light meals.

Meursault

Meursault is a region in France that is known for its oaked Chardonnay wines. These wines are rich and buttery, with flavors of vanilla, toast, and butterscotch. They are often paired with heavier meals, such as roasted pork or ham.

Best Chardonnays to Try

There are many great Chardonnays out there to try, from all over the world. Here are some of our top picks:

Domaine Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Combettes, Côte de Beaune, France

This wine from Burgundy is a classic example of oaked Chardonnay. It is rich and full-bodied, with flavors of vanilla, toast, and butterscotch. It has a long, complex finish and pairs well with roasted meats and creamy pasta dishes.

Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay, Kumeu, New Zealand

This wine from New Zealand is an excellent example of unoaked Chardonnay. It is crisp and refreshing, with flavors of lemon, green apple, and pear. It is a great choice for pairing with sushi, ceviche, or grilled seafood.

Ramey Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, California

This wine from California is an oaked Chardonnay with flavors of vanilla, butterscotch, and toast. It is rich and creamy, with a long finish. It pairs well with roasted chicken or pork, or with a creamy pasta dish.

Leeuwin Estate Chardonnay, Margaret River, Australia

This wine from Australia is an oaked Chardonnay that has won numerous awards. It is rich and full-bodied, with flavors of vanilla and butterscotch. It pairs well with roasted meats or heavy seafood dishes.

Albert Bichot Chablis Grand Cru Moutonne, Burgundy, France

This wine from Chablis is an excellent example of unoaked Chardonnay. It is crisp, dry, and acidic, with flavors of green apple and citrus. It pairs well with light seafood dishes or creamy soups.

Why Chardonnay is the Most Versatile Wine Ever

In conclusion, Chardonnay is a versatile grape that can be made into a wide range of wine styles. Whether you prefer crisp and acidic unoaked Chardonnay or rich and creamy oaked Chardonnay, there is a Chardonnay out there for everyone. Chardonnay is also a great wine to pair with food, as it can be paired with everything from sushi to roast turkey.

So the next time you’re looking for a versatile wine that can pair with anything on your plate, reach for a bottle of Chardonnay and experience the magic for yourself.

FAQ

Q: What foods pair well with Chardonnay?

A: Chardonnay pairs well with a wide variety of foods, including seafood, poultry, pork, creamy pasta dishes, and many types of cheese. It can also be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif.

Q: What is the difference between oaked and unoaked Chardonnay?

A: Oaked Chardonnay is aged in oak barrels, which can add flavors of vanilla, butterscotch, and toast to the wine, as well as a creamier texture. Unoaked Chardonnay, on the other hand, is not aged in oak and tends to be lighter and more crisp.

Q: What are some good Chardonnay producers?

A: There are many good Chardonnay producers around the world, including Chateau Montelena, Ramey Wine Cellars, Kistler Vineyards, Domaine Leflaive, Leeuwin Estate, and Albert Bichot.

Q: What temperature should Chardonnay be served at?

A: Unoaked Chardonnay should be served chilled, at around 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit. Oaked Chardonnay should be served slightly warmer, at around 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit, to bring out the full flavor.