Chardonnay is the world's most popular white grape and one of the most versatile. It is relatively neutral, making it a perfect vehicle for terroir and winemaking technique to show through.
Winemaking impact:
- Oak ageing adds vanilla, toast and butter notes.
- Malolactic fermentation (MLF) converts sharp malic acid to softer lactic acid, adding a creamy, buttery texture.
- Lees ageing (sur lie) adds richness and a yeasty, biscuity complexity.
Cool climate (Chablis, Champagne, Mâcon): high acidity, green apple, lemon, mineral; no oak or subtle oak. Warm climate (Napa, Margaret River): tropical fruit (mango, pineapple), full body, creamy texture; heavy oak common.
Aromas: Apple, citrus, stone fruit, melon; secondary: vanilla, toast, butter, hazelnut.
