All about Chardonnay

Today, we're going to take a look at Chardonnay. This grape variety, originally from Burgundy, is undoubtedly one of the best known in the world today. Indeed, who hasn't heard someone ask for a glass of Chardonnay in a restaurant? 

This variety originated near Mâcon and is a descendant of Pinot Noir, coupled with another very old variety, Gouais Blanc. 

Unlike Pinot Noir, which only thrives in Burgundy, Chardonnay has succeeded in adapting to other terroirs. In fact, it has conquered the whole world, making it the 7th most planted grape variety after Kyoho, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sultanina, Merlot, Tempranillot and Airen.

The reasons for its success are due to the fact that it has many qualities, such as excellent yields. It also has a great capacity to withstand different temperatures. It thrives on limestone soils, but also on other soils. 

But Chardonnay 's success is undoubtedly due to its low aromatic content, which makes it very malleable, much appreciated by winemakers. 

For example, in a region such as Chablis, the wines will have citrus and green apple flavors with a lively, tangy mouthfeel. 

In a region with a more temperate climate like the Côte de Beaune, it will have aromas of white fruits such as peach and white flowers. 

In France, Chardonnay is found in virtually every wine-growing region, including Jura, Alsace, Savoy, Beaujolais and Languedoc. 

Worldwide, it can be found in Australia at Yarra Valley, Adelaide Hills and Margaret Rive, and in New Zealand in the Marlborough region. In South Africa, in Walker Bay. In Argentina, in the Mendoza region , and in the United States, in Russian River, Sonoma and Carneros in California.