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The Versatile Chardonnay
from: Maxx Guide to WineChardonnay is the most popular and perhaps the most versatile grape in the world. Most white Burgundy -- Bourgogne Blanc to Chablis -- is made from 100% chardonnay grapes, which is also the mainstay in many types of champagne. Chardonnay is now even being used in Spain to make Cava, as well.
Chardonnay grapes are easy to grow, which is partly why they're championed by so many grape producers since these grapes can be used to produce many different types of wines. In addition, the grapse have little indigenous character of its own, but displays the characteristics of the soil and climate where it's grown.
Chardonnay displays a propensity for acid and glycerine, which is responsible for its velvety texture, an important characteristic of this type of grape. It's this texture that makes it so versatile for producing wine.
Chardonnay can be crafted into fresh lemony unoaked wine as well as aged in barrels, which produces a wine for a much richer palate. It's often considered a cheap wine not worth trying, but it should be noted these grapes are used in high quality Chablis and Champagne, which means it shouldn't be dismissed outright.
Chardonnay is available in many different styles, so you'll find a chardonnay to suit every palate, due to the versatility of the grape, which is produced in almost every wine producing country in the world.
The best approach to finding the best type of Chardonnay to suit your taste is to get busy tasting your way around a few bottles.
A ream of different Chardonnays are produced in France. If you want a pure, unoaked Chardonnay, look for a Chablis labelled unoaked, which is delicate and unobtrusive, making it great with fish. For a clean flavoured wine with a subtle fruit aroma look to the Meursault and Montrachet regions.
California also produces wines that go well with grilled seasoned foods. Napa Valley produces great oaky, fruity wines, ideal for outdoor eating and drinking. An even fruitier, riper flavour can be had from the Santa Barbara region. These highly flavoured wines even taste great with grilled meats.
An intensely flavoured Chardonnay that can be enjoyed without food comes from Hunter Valley in Australia. This tropically flavoured wine is great chilled and enjoyed after a long day at work.
Actually, a bit of research and experimenting will help you find a Chardannay to suit your palate. With so many different types available from so many different countries, chances are you'll find just the right one.
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