Introduction

Originating in the Burgundy wine region of France, Chardonnay is a green-skinned grape variety used to make white wine. It is one of the most widely planted grape varieties grown in all wine producing countries, from England to New Zealand. In fact, it is seen as a “rite of passage” and as a means of entry into the international wine market for new and developing wine regions.

Chardonnay Wines

The Chardonnay grape is very neutral, deriving many of its flavours from influences such as terroir and oak. Made in different styles in different wine regions, Chardonnay wines from Chablis, France are dry, lean and crisply mineral. Burgundy Chardonnays Wine are varied in their flavours; from steely styles to hazelnut aromas to round and buttery examples. Famous Chardonnay wines from France include Chablis, Puligny-Montrachet, Chassange-Montrachet, Pouilly-Fuisse, Meursault to name a few. In addition to being the most expensive, the Burgundy examples of Chardonnay were long considered the benchmark of expressing terroir through Chardonnay. There wines are generally austere & acidic with a pronounced green apple aroma and flavour. While most Chardonnays are meant to be consumed within 2-3 years, some of them will need at least 3 years in the bottle to develop aromas and character.