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 Chardonnay is the world’s second most ubiquitous grape and arguably its most beloved. Famous for her contribution to such stars of the wine world as Chablis, Chassagne, and Champagne, this shape shifting heroine of wine regions worldwide never fails to satisfy and surprise. Crisp, lean and elegant? Spicy, round and decadent? Somewhere in between? No matter how you like it, there is a Chardonnay for you.
Chardonnay is a very sensitive grape that will develop in acute accord with environmental influences, both natural and human. Subtle variation in soil type, climate, or winemaking technique will result in a discernibly different bottle of wine. Highly adaptable as a crop, Chardonnay can thrive in a wide variety of terrains provided that the location is blessed with natural cooling forces to slow down the ripening process and prevent over-development of the grape’s sugars.
The hallowed limestone clay soils of Burgundy and Champagne in France; the coastal fogs that roll over California’s Russian River valley; the long days and maritime breezes of New Zealand’s Marlborough region--all of these forces infuse Chardonnay with dramatic regional character. Geography and terroir having played their part, it is the winemaker’s turn to influence the character of the wines. (And Chardonnay’s character is very easily influenced!) Time spent aging in oak barrels imparts a significant amount of flavor and texture to the wine, as does the age and origin of the barrels themselves. To compare and contrast a Chardonnay from Chablis that was aged in stainless steel with one from Sonoma that rested in new oak barrels is a fabulous study in taste and texture. Chardonnay wines will take you on a journey through regions, flavors, and feelings that seem to belie a common source. Try a new Chardonnay today!
Cheers!
-The Staff at Winfield-Flynn
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