One of the most famous wines you can buy is Chardonnay. But what do you really know about this wine? For starters, did you know that the original grape comes from burgundy in France? Chardonnay is used in Chablis wine. It is said to contribute to the fresh and steely flavour of the wine. But it also used in many other wines throughout France. This includes those found in the Cte de Beaune and the appellation of Chassagne-Montrachet. Chardonnay is also used in some wines produced in the south of France. These are perhaps not as well known as their northern counterparts. However, wines from the Cte Chalonnaise are still highly desired for their creamy and nutty taste.
Champagne can also be made using the Chardonnay grape. There are only two other types of grape that are allowed to grow in the region. They are Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. The three grapes can be blended together or used separately. Champagne that is made from just Chardonnay is known as Blanc de Blancs. The grape is allowed to grow on the chalky hills of the region. This area has been dubbed the Cte des Blancs as a result.
As we move further south the flavour of Chardonnay changes. It is generally considered to become more mellow the further south it is grown. In fact, many people regard the oaky and buttery taste as being the definitive flavour of Chardonnay. It can also be blended with grapes like Viognier or Marsanne. These effectively reduce the rich flavour. However, they also add more fruit to the taste.
Of course you can find Chardonnay outside of France. In Spain it grows in the Somontano. In Italy it is usually found in the North. However, the Italians like to blend it with their own white grapes. These include Fiano, Verdicchio and Glera. You can even find Chardonnay growing in England. It is mainly grown in the counties of Sussex and Surrey. Here it is used to produce English Sparkling Wine.
The most prolific areas where Chardonnay is grown are actually the New World countries. The include Australia, New Zealand, Chile and Argentine.
California probably has the biggest claim to Chardonnay. Here it is plentiful and grown in areas such as Napa and Sonoma. Landmark Chardonnay is a particularly good wine from Sonoma. It can also be found in Santa Barbara. These southern examples produce quality wines such as Wild Boy from Au Bon Climat.
Champagne can also be made using the Chardonnay grape. There are only two other types of grape that are allowed to grow in the region. They are Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. The three grapes can be blended together or used separately. Champagne that is made from just Chardonnay is known as Blanc de Blancs. The grape is allowed to grow on the chalky hills of the region. This area has been dubbed the Cte des Blancs as a result.
As we move further south the flavour of Chardonnay changes. It is generally considered to become more mellow the further south it is grown. In fact, many people regard the oaky and buttery taste as being the definitive flavour of Chardonnay. It can also be blended with grapes like Viognier or Marsanne. These effectively reduce the rich flavour. However, they also add more fruit to the taste.
Of course you can find Chardonnay outside of France. In Spain it grows in the Somontano. In Italy it is usually found in the North. However, the Italians like to blend it with their own white grapes. These include Fiano, Verdicchio and Glera. You can even find Chardonnay growing in England. It is mainly grown in the counties of Sussex and Surrey. Here it is used to produce English Sparkling Wine.
The most prolific areas where Chardonnay is grown are actually the New World countries. The include Australia, New Zealand, Chile and Argentine.
California probably has the biggest claim to Chardonnay. Here it is plentiful and grown in areas such as Napa and Sonoma. Landmark Chardonnay is a particularly good wine from Sonoma. It can also be found in Santa Barbara. These southern examples produce quality wines such as Wild Boy from Au Bon Climat.
