Grape variety : Chardonnay
Where does the Chardonnay come from ?
Chardonnay comes from the cross of two other grape varieties, Pinot noir and Gouais blanc. Pinot noir being a noble red grape, Gouais blanc a white grape a little less noble. They merged perfectly in their French cradle: Burgundy.
Profile
Chardonnay is a brilliant and golden grape, with spherical or slightly elongated berries, which gives fine and distinguished white wines. It is versatile and changes according to the region, the terroir, the winemaker. Very floral or very fruity, it can also be sharp and mineral or sensual and buttery. Due to its ability to absorb, its aromatic character is not very precise, but usually includes lemon, acacia, and butter. It is often aged in oak barrels to enhance its notes of toast and brioche. The finest Chardonnays always give a very nice balance between fat and acidity, a beautiful minerality.
Climate
Hot and cold. This variety adapts to all climates, that’s why it’s so popular. It will be dry and mineral in cold climates, creamy with aromas of ripe fruits in hot climates.
Where does chardonnay grow ?
In France : Burgundy, Champagne, Jura, Languedoc, Loire…
Other countries : US (California), Canada, Chili, Argentina, South Africa, China, Australia.
Food pairing
Chardonnay is ideal with appetizers (tapas, cheese board,…), poultry, cream dishes, spicy cuisine, oysters, seafood platter, …
