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ChardonnayWhite Wine
Chardonnay
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a green-skinned grape variety used to make a white varietal wine
.
Its name is derived from Chardonnay, a village in the Mâconnais region of France, where Pouilly-Fuissé is currently being produced and it is possible that the variety was first cultivated there. DNA research at the University of California, suggests that Chardonnay is a cross between the Pinot and the Croatian Gouais Blanc grape. Gouais Blanc was never really very not popular in its own and is almost extinct
.
Chardonnay is also known by a handful of other names such as, Aubaine, Beaunois, Melon Blanc, and, historically Pinot Chardonnay, part of the attraction of Chardonnay, for wine makers is its versatility. In the U.S., it is often made using Whats known as "full malolactic fermentation" with some oak handling. Without oak, Chardonnay generally produces a soft wine, often with fruity, minerally flavors. When aged with oak, Chardonnay acquires a smokey, vanilla, caramel, and butter like aroma.
In the historic venue of Chardonnay, the much cooler climate winemaking region of Chablis, oak treatment traditionally doesnt occur. The malolactic fermentation is not typically used here. This produces a wine with more acidity which focus on minerality and purity. Other regions of Burgundy produce more full bodied styles which have oak and cheese like aromas.
Chardonnay is also quite important in making Champagne and there are even a few 100% Chardonnay Champagnes, labeled blanc de blancs. It is also used by sparkling wine producers who want to produce a Champagne-like wine.
In 2001, Chardonnay stood eighth-ranked in global planting of grape varieties, with an estimated 140,000 hectares planted, the main chardonnay producing countries being, the United States of America, France, Australia and Italy. Its popularity has caused a backlash from some wine drinkers, who declare themselves interested in (ABC) - Anything But Chardonnay - .
In Australia and New Zealand, Chardonnay varietal wines are among the most popular white wines. As of 2005, Chardonnay is now by far the most widely planted grape in Australia.
Australia is one of the few locales where Chardonnay is blended to make a still wine. The traditional blending partner there is Sémillon.
Pronunciation: Shar-doe-nay 
Also Known As: Dry White Wines
Common Misspellings: Chardonay, Chardonnai
Examples: Many restaurants top their white wine lists with a classic Chardonnay, a versatile wine that will complement many entrees.
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