Chardonnay is America's number one selling white wine varietal.
Originating in France, the grape first rose to prominence in the Chablis, where it is the only grape permitted to be grown. Chardonnay became the only grape allowed to be grown in Chablis region where the famous Grand Cru wines originate. This popular white grape is used in sparkling wines and is often blended with Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier to make Champagne.
Chardonnay is a relatively low-maintenance vine that adapts well to a variety of climates, resulting in fairly high yields worldwide. Capable of taking on many different flavors imparted by the terroir and the characteristics imparted by the winemaker, Chardonnay boasts an impressive range of styles and structures. From the expected butter, vanilla and oaky overtones that boast power and presence, to the unoaked fruit forward versions expect fresh, fruit flavors of apple, pear, tropical fruit, citrus and melon, that leave a lasting palate impression.
In an effort to reproduce the great whites of Burgundy, Chardonnay has been subjected to excessive oak fermentation, aging, sur lees treatment and Malolactic fermentation in past years and has lost some of its true varietal characteristics. But in a recent trend, more Chardonnays are being made that have seen little to no oak, thus showing more of the true varietal characteristics of the wine.
This white wine is capable of accommodating most palates and just as many food pairing combinations. Chardonnay will pair well with poultry dishes, pork, seafood or recipes that have a heavy cream or butter base, while unoaked Chardonnay will pair well with guacamole, garlic, salads, grilled shrimp or even curry dishes.
Flavor Characteristics by region:
Russian River Valley, shared by Sonoma and Mendocino Counties - apples, pears & peaches
Carneros, shared by Sonoma and Napa Counties – flinty
Monterey County - citric, lemony
Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County - pineapple, tropical
Edna Valley, San Luis Obispo County - apricot, fleshy
The Wine List Recommends these fine Chardonnays
Lonen Chardonnay
From the female owner, manager, and winemaker of Jocelyn Lonen Winery comes this wonderful expression of Chardonnay. Lovely citrus and melon on the front followed by peach and white ginger blossom. Graceful pear, melon and peach flavors, with a broad spicy mid palate and a clean tapering finish. This first vintage release if a must try and a great value for the money.
Mer Soleil Silver Unoaked Chardonnay
A true expression of Chardonnay fruit without any oak influences. In an effort to unite the crisp mineral essence of classic Chablis style with the tropical elements found in Chardonnay of the Pacific coastline, Mer Soleil created Silver. Light gold color with a pale green tint, this wine has clean, lively aromas of honeydew melon and green apple that carry over to delicate tropical fruit flavors of pineapple and papaya, balanced with crisp mineral notes. The full texture lasts through a luxuriously long finish. Also recommended is Mer Soleil Central Coast Barrel Fermented Chardonnay.
Ramey Sonoma Chardonnay
“Bright yellow. Precise, mineral-driven aromas of pear, spicecake, iodine and wet concrete, along with a sexy floral aspect. At once tactile and fine-grained, with subtle smokiness giving depth to the flavors of Meyer lemon, minerals and candied ginger. Tightens up toward the back, finishing quite suave, with strong lift and cut to its ginger-laced orchard fruit flavors.” 91 points – Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar May/June 2010.
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