When you think of California wines, you probably first think of Cabernet Sauvignon, but did you know, Chardonnay is the wine that put California on the international wine map. If you don’t already know the story, look into The Judgement of Paris from 1976 and learn more. We have the paperback for just $10 when you buy any bottle of Chardonnay from us.
The varietal originated in the Burgundy region of eastern France but is grown in nearly every wine-making region around the world. DNA fingerprinting research conducted by the University of California, Davis, now suggests Romans brought the Gouais Blanc grape from Croatia and it was widely cultivated by peasants in eastern France. The Pinot Noir grape of the French aristocracy grew in close proximity to the Gouais Blanc and thus both grapes had ample opportunity to interbreed. It is now believed this interbreeding created the Chardonnay grape in France.
Chardonnay is considered neutral, and very much takes on the traits of the terroir were it is grown and the wine making style used for production, including the use of oak barrels in aging. You’ll find Chardonnay produced in many different styles, from the lean, crisp wines of Chablis that exhibit balanced minerality, to heavier, oaky wines from California. Those grown in the cooler climates such as Chablis, France and the Carneros AVA of California will exhibit a medium or even light body with noticeable acidity and flavors of green plum, apple and pear. When grown in warmer locations such as Australia and New Zealand, you’ll notice flavors leaning towards citrus, peach, melon and honey. Even warmer locations such as the Central Coast AVA of California or the Texas High Plains will show more fig and tropical notes such as mango. Regardless of the terrior, when the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation, it will tend towards a softer acidity and a buttery smooth mouthfeel with notes of hazelnut.
Burgundy, Chablis and Champagne are the regions in France where the most Chardonnay is grown. This grape is a major component of most Champagne, and is largely used in the Italian sparkling wine, Franciacorta. As one of the most widely planted grapes, you’ll find over 520,000 acres worldwide.
Characteristics of Chardonnay include a golden color with a velvety smooth feel in the mouth; expect flavors and aromas that include lemon, melon, grass, vanilla and maybe a dominant browned toast if oak is used in production.