Everything you need to know about the Chardonnay grape variety

Whether you are a wine lover or not, you have most likely already heard of the Chardonnay . And for good reason, this one is  the second most planted white grape variety in the world  ! This noble variety is very well established in France in various regions such as the Burgundy , there Champagne , THE Languedoc-Roussillon or even the Loire and the Jura , has also been exported in an impressive manner  since the 20th century.

In this article we will start  to discover this fabulous grape variety and explore its origins , his taste characteristics , THE food and wine pairings possible or even its serving temperature . Follow the leader !

The origins of Chardonnay 

The exact origin of a grape variety is always a complex matter. Chardonnay is no exception and although different theories exist, it seems that it has its roots in Burgundy , more precisely in the Mâconnais.  The latter would in fact come from a cross between varieties  pinot noir and white gouais accomplished  aware of the 16th century .

Appreciating its taste qualities, The monks would then have spread it subsequently within various French regions. before its success became international during the  20th century. 

Today, This is (almost) the only white grape variety planted in Burgundy , a region where it represents almost half of the vineyard. The following regions Champagne  And Languedoc-Roussillon where Chardonnay is also very present. Other wine-growing areas such as the Loire, Jura, Savoie and Beaujolais cultivate it.

At an international level this is particularly present in the United States  (which is the world's leading producer), but also in Chile, Argentina, Australia and South Africa.

In any case, its success story is now beyond dispute and Chardonnay is probably the most famous variety throughout the world !

The taste and aromas of the  Chardonnay

What makes Chardonnay so captivating is its ability to reflect one's environment . Indeed, the wines produced from this grape variety vary considerably depending on the terroir, the climate or even their vinification and aging. This is most likely its great adaptability which allows it to have global influence.

To caricature, we could say that there exists  two great styles of chardonnay . The first style focuses on the fruity notes of the grape variety. The wine  East  so generally raised in a neutral container (stainless steel tank in particular), not altering its intrinsic aromas. In this case,  the vintages express  aromas ranging from white fruits (peach, apricot etc.) to citrus (lemon, grapefruit etc.) passing through the green apple . Nevertheless, even in this  same style, its expression can vary considerably . For example, we will note  a big aromatic difference between a  chardonnay of Chablis expressing tension and minerality in comparison to a Languedoc chardonnay with riper and more gourmet fruity notes.

The other style of Chardonnay is that aged in oak barrels This style is particularly widespread in Burgundy within appellations such as Chassagne-Montrachet , Pouilly-Fuisse or even Meursault . Here, the material in the mouth will be heavier and the fruit notes will blend deliciously with aromas wooded , spicy, buttery and brioche from breeding in  barrels.

These two styles of  wines also exist in the White of white champagnes  (100% chardonnay therefore)  : on one side the chardonnays minerals , fresh and chalky, on the other those  aged in barrels, expressing power and aromatic richness.

Of course, many nuances exist between these lines, making wine lovers around the world very happy! So, if there are as many Chardonnays as there are wines, you now know the main aromatic axes of this wonderful grape variety.

What to eat with Chardonnay ?

As you will have understood, Chardonnay, thanks to its superb versatility, can be paired with a myriad of dishes depending on its profile.

So, if this is expressed mainly  on simple, mineral and fruity notes, it will marry wonderfully with summer salads , of the seafood (oysters, langoustines, scallops, etc.) or even white fish like Cod or Sea Bream.

Moreover, if it has a more powerful and woody aspect, some white meats (chicken, pork etc.) or fish in sauce will then combine deliciously with this one. Of course, these general rules apply in the same way for a chardonnay  effervescent or not.

At what temperature to serve Chardonnay? ?

Due to the multitude of styles  of wine that offers  Chardonnay, this one will be used a different temperature  according to its type.

So, simpler and lighter wines evolving on the fruit can be used between 8-10°C . THE powerful wines and wooded will be ideal when offered between 11-13°C . Indeed, if served too cold, they will not be able to reveal their full aromatic complexity and you will miss out on part of the pleasure!

On the champagne side, a temperature between 6-8°C is ideal for bubbles with light and mineral flavors . For the gastronomic champagnes , 8-10°C will be an ideal beach to, once again, best reveal all the flavors present.

All you have to do now is pour yourself a drink!

What are the best Chardonnays? ?

Although it is impossible to give an exhaustive list of the best Chardonnays, The Illuminated Cellar offers you below a selection of its finest wines and champagnes based on it. There is something for all tastes and budgets so don't hesitate and be curious...We are sure you will find what you are looking for in this list!

Enjoy your tasting and see you soon at The Illuminated Cellar !