Grape Vine
Chardonnay
The most versatile and well-known white grape which, despite its class, has recently suffered a bit of an identity crisis.
Versatility:
Fruity:
Surprise factor:
Ubiquity:
Impress your mates:
What you need to know
Chardonnay is grown almost everywhere that wine is made in the world, including the UK!
It makes up some of the greatest wines in the world and some of the most basic ones as part of a blend.
It’s quite neutral in flavour and character so takes its style from the climate, vineyards and winemaker’s process. But it isn’t bland, the potential for chardonnays range from light and crisp to rich and buttery.
As a rule unoaked Chardonnay is crisp and citrusy, getting more tropical as it goes into warmer climates. Chablis is one example of an unoaked Chardonnay.
Oaked Chardonnay tends to be more full bodied with a distinctive ‘buttery’ or even butterscotch flavour.
Chardonnay is also a key ingredient in Champagne and sparkling wines and the grape used to make Chablis.
Top tip – don’t be put off if you don’t like oaky wines, try some unoaked Chardonnay and be delighted.
Recommended
Neil Ellis Chardonnay
South Africa has many talents and producing winemakers who knock it out of the park is definitely one. This Chardonnay is rich, ripe and packed with creamy fruit flavours. The oak adds a touch of nuttiness to the opulent flavours. Perfect with bold flavours like pumpkin, thyme laced roast chicken and roast potatoes.
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