All about the Chardonnay grape variety

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

In this article, we will  discover this fabulous grape variety and explore its origins, its tasting characteristics, possible food and wine pairings, and even its serving temperature. Follow the guide!

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 finds its roots in Burgundy, more precisely in the Mâconnais. It is believed to be the result of a cross between the varieties Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc carried out in the 16th century.

Appreciating its tasting qualities, the monks then spread it throughout various French regions before its success became international in the  20th century. 

Today, it is (almost) the only white grape variety planted in Burgundy, a region where it accounts for almost half of the vineyard. Next come the regions of Champagne and Languedoc-Roussillon where Chardonnay is also very present. Other wine regions such as the Loire, Jura, Savoie, and Beaujolais also cultivate it.

Internationally, it 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 undisputed and Chardonnay is probably the most well-known variety worldwide!

The taste and aromas of  Chardonnay

What makes Chardonnay so captivating is its ability to reflect its environment. Indeed, wines made from this grape vary considerably depending on the terroir, climate, and their vinification and aging. It is most likely this brilliant adaptability that allows it to shine worldwide.

To simplify, one could say that there are  two main styles of Chardonnay. The first style focuses on the grape's fruity notes. The wine  is therefore generally aged in a neutral container (such as stainless steel tanks), which does not alter its intrinsic aromas. In this case,  the cuvées express aromas ranging from white fruits (peach, apricot, etc.) to citrus fruits (lemon, grapefruit, etc.) and even green apple. Nevertheless, even within this same style, its expression can vary considerably. For example, you will notice  a great aromatic difference between a  Chardonnay from Chablis expressing tension and minerality compared to a Chardonnay from Languedoc with riper fruity notes and indulgentes.

The other style of Chardonnay is aged in oak barrels. This style is particularly widespread in Burgundy in appellations such as Chassagne-Montrachet, Pouilly-Fuissé, and Meursault. Here, the mouthfeel will be heavier and the fruit notes will mingle with indulgentise and aromas of oak, spice, butter, and brioche from barrel aging.

These two styles of  wines also exist among Champagnes Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay) : on one side, mineral, fresh, and chalky Chardonnays, on the other, those aged in barrels, expressing power and aromatic richness.

Of course, many nuances exist between these lines, which is precisely what delights wine lovers around the world! So, while there are as many Chardonnays as there are wines, you now know the main aromatic profiles of this wonderful grape variety.

What to eat with Chardonnay?

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

Thus, if it is expressed mainly  with simple, mineral, and fruity notes, it will pair wonderfully with summer salads, seafood (oysters, langoustines, scallops, etc.), or white fish such as cod or sea bream.

Furthermore, if it has a more powerful and oaky character, certain white meats (chicken, pork, etc.) or sauced fish will combine deliciously with it. Of course, these general rules apply in the same way for a  sparkling or still Chardonnay.

At what temperature should Chardonnay be served?

Due to the multitude of  wine styles offered by  Chardonnay, it should be served at a different temperature depending on its type.

Thus, simpler and lighter wines with fruity notes can be served between 8-10°C. Powerful and oaky wines are ideal when served between 11-13°C. Indeed, if served too cold, they will not reveal their full aromatic complexity and you would miss out on part of the pleasure!

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

All that's left is to pour yourself a glass!

What are the best Chardonnays?

Although it is impossible to provide an exhaustive list of the best Chardonnays, La Cave Éclairée offers you below a selection of its finest wines and champagnes made from this grape. There is something for every taste and budget, 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 La Cave Éclairée!