The short version
What is Chardonnay?
Chardonnay's relatively neutral fruit makes place and winemaking easy to taste. Cool regions and stainless steel emphasize citrus and stone; warm sites, oak, and malolactic fermentation create broader textures.
Apple, lemon, pear, peach, and sometimes pineapple form the fruit core. Oak may bring vanilla and toast, while malolactic fermentation can add a creamy or buttery impression.
In the glass
Flavors to look for
01Apple
02Lemon
03Pear
04Vanilla
05Toast
At the table
Food pairings that work
Match the wine’s weight to the dish, then let acidity refresh the palate and savory flavors echo one another.
Roast chickenLobsterCreamy pastaCorn dishes
Where it grows
Regions to know
- Burgundy, France
- California, USA
- Australia
- Chile