Chardonnay: an iconic white grape variety

The origins of Chardonnay

The history of Chardonnay goes back centuries, with its first documented traces dating back to the Middle Ages in Burgundy. Its name probably derives from the village of Chardonnay in the department of Saône-et-Loire in Burgundy. The grape variety then travelled the world, successfully establishing itself in many wine-growing regions across the globe.

The characteristics of chardonnay

Chardonnay is appreciated for its versatility and its ability to reflect the terroirs in which it is grown. This white grape variety can produce wines that range from light and fresh to rich and opulent, depending on factors such as climate, soil and viticultural practices. Chardonnay's flavour characteristics can range from lime and green apple in fresher wines, to peach, pineapple and butter in richer, riper wines. On the palate, Chardonnay is often rich and creamy, with balanced acidity and notes of hazelnut and butter.

Chardonnay lends itself to a wide variety of winemaking styles, making it an extremely versatile grape variety. It is used to produce still white wines, sparkling wines such as champagne, as well as sweet and syrupy wines. Among the best-known Burgundy wines are Chablis, Meursault and Pouilly-Fuissé.

In which regions can you find Chardonnay?

Chardonnay is a worldwide grape variety that excels in a variety of climates and terroirs. Its ability to adapt and develop in different regions makes itone of the most popular and widely grown white grape varieties in the world.

Outside France, Chardonnay can be found in other prestigious wine-growing regions, notably California. Regions such as Napa Valley and the Sonoma Coast are renowned for their rich Chardonnays. In neighbouring Oregon, Chardonnay produces finer wines with lively acidity.

In Australia, Chardonnay thrives in wine-growing regions such as Eden Valley and Margaret River, where it produces balanced, expressive wines, often reflecting a fresh, mineral character. In New Zealand, particularly in the Marlborough and Hawke's Bay regions, Chardonnay is appreciated for its wines with fresh fruit aromas.

In Italy, Chardonnay is used to produce sparkling wines, while in Chile and Argentina, this white grape variety offers a vibrant, fruity expression.

Chardonnay and food pairings

Chardonnay-based or single-vineyard wines go well with a wide variety of dishes thanks to their versatility. A fresher, more mineral Chardonnay goes well with seafood, salads and poultry dishes, while a richer, more opulent Chardonnay goes better with richer dishes such as lobster, roast chicken or creamy cheeses.