Chardonnay

The world-famous Chardonnay grape variety is also known in German-speaking countries as Feinburgunder. The proportion of Chardonnay grown in Champagne is around 26%. The Côte des Blancs region is the primary growing area. In contrast to the blue Pinot Noir and the equally blue Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay is a 'white' grape, initially yellowish-green in colour and ultimately golden-yellow when fully ripe.

The Chardonnay grape variety is sensitive to frost. It also sprouts earlier than the Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier varieties. This grape variety also prefers a lot of sun.

The Chardonnay is therefore somewhat more demanding to grow. However, it produces marvellous Blanc de Blancs and cuvées. Chardonnay grapes lend Champagnes finesse of flavour as well as a fresh, pleasant fragrance, which can be reminiscent of chamomile, jasmine, violet, orange, roses and much more.

Home of the Chardonnay grape

The original home of the Chardonnay grape is disputed. There are many indications that it is related to or a cross between the Pinot grape family from Burgundy and the Heunisch grape. There are also speculations that Chardonnay may have been introduced to France from Lebanon during the Crusades. Historical research by Claude Taittinger traces the origin of the first Chardonnay vines back to the minstrel Thibaud, who discovered them on his return from the Crusades in Cyprus in 1240 and consequently brought Chardonnay cuttings back to his native Champagne. The successful spread of the grape variety in Champagne and Burgundy is primarily attributed to the Benedictine monks.

Chardonnay is one of the best-known and most versatile white grape varieties in the world. This grape originally comes from Burgundy in France and is now cultivated worldwide. Chardonnay is used for the production of both still wines and sparkling wines, especially champagne. In this text, I will provide a comprehensive overview of Chardonnay, including its origin, growing regions, wine styles and role in Champagne production.

Origin and distribution

The Chardonnay grape variety has its origins in Burgundy, a famous wine region in the east of France. Its name is derived from a small village called Chardonnay in the Mâconnais region. However, the grape variety has spread far beyond its region of origin and is now cultivated in almost every wine-growing region in the world. Countries such as the USA (especially California), Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Chile and Argentina have become major producers of Chardonnay.

Cultivation areas

Chardonnay is an adaptable grape variety that thrives in different climate zones. In Burgundy, where it originated, it is mainly grown in the Chablis, Côte de Beaune and Mâconnais regions. Each of these regions produces Chardonnay wines with different characteristics. Chablis, which has a cooler climate, produces wines that are often described as lean, mineral and very dry. In the Côte de Beaune, particularly in the communes of Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet and Chassagne-Montrachet, some of the world's most prestigious and complex Chardonnay wines are produced.

In California, particularly in Napa Valley and Sonoma County, Chardonnay is grown in warmer conditions, often resulting in riper, fruit-driven wines. Australia, particularly regions such as the Yarra Valley and Margaret River, and New Zealand, with its cooler climates, also produce remarkable Chardonnay wines, often characterised by their freshness and lively acidity.

Wine stylistics

Chardonnay is one of the most versatile grape varieties and can be vinified in a variety of styles, from crisp and mineral to rich and buttery. This versatility is partly due to the winemaking techniques that winemakers can use.

One of the best-known techniques is the malolactic fermentation process, in which pungent malic acid is converted into softer lactic acid. This results in a creamier mouthfeel and often flavours reminiscent of butter or cream. The use of oak barrels, either through fermentation or maturation, can also greatly influence the style of the wine, adding vanilla, toast and spice flavours.

On the other hand, there are many winemakers who take a more minimalist approach and avoid the influence of oak to emphasise the pure fruitiness and minerality of the grape. These wines are often fresher and have a higher acidity, making them excellent accompaniments for a variety of dishes.

Chardonnay and champagne

Chardonnay also plays a central role in Champagne production. In Champagne, one of the northernmost wine regions in France, Chardonnay is used together with the red grape varieties Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier for the production of Champagne. In fact, Chardonnay is the only white grape variety authorised in Champagne.

The grape variety brings freshness, elegance and finesse to Champagne cuvées. It is often used in Blanc de Blancs Champagnes, which means that the Champagne is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. These wines are characterised by their liveliness, citrus-like freshness and often a pronounced minerality.

Some of the most prestigious champagne houses, such as Krug, Dom Pérignon and Ruinart, rely heavily on Chardonnay in their prestigious cuvées. These wines often show amazing complexity and ageing potential, retaining their freshness for years while gaining depth and structure.

Conclusion

Chardonnay is undoubtedly one of the most important and versatile grape varieties in the world of wine. Its ability to adapt to different climates and winemaking techniques makes it a favourite choice for winemakers and wine lovers alike. Whether as an elegant Burgundy, fruity Californian or sophisticated Champagne, Chardonnay offers an incredible range of flavours and styles that have the potential to please any palate. The grape variety remains an integral part of the global wine landscape and will continue to produce exceptional wines in the future.

 

 

Back to the lexicon & glossary | You were here: Chardonnay