International Chardonnay Day is celebrated on the 25th of May 2017 – what is Chardonnay all about?

Chardonnay

Pronounced “Shar-doh-nay”

Not only is Chardonnay the world’s most famous white wine varietal, but it is also one of the most widely planted grapes. Because of the high level of winemakers’ involvement, Chardonnay has become known as the “winemaker’s wine”. This grape originated from Burgundy, France.

Chardonnay is a full bodied white wine, usually characterised by a combination of apple flavour along with lemon, pineapple or butter. It tends to have less “green flavours” than Sauvignon Blanc. In colour, it ranges from a gentle yellow hue to a golden yellow.

Types: Chardonnays are usually divided into two styles: Unwooded Chardonnays and Wooded Chardonnays. Unwooded Chardonnays show crisp, citrusy flavours, while wooded ones are buttery, tasting of toast and vanilla.

Flavours and aromas: Chardonnay smells and tastes buttery when it is aged in oak. The oak also adds additional flavours of vanilla, butter and even caramel. Some Chardonnays are described as having a creamy, smooth or waxy texture, which is as a result of a special kind of fermentations (Malolactic Fermentations) which involves using a different kind of yeast.

Warm climate Chardonnay: These Chardonnays have more tropical fruit flavours which may include apple, pineapple, guava, mango and lemon. These Chardonnay’s also tend to have less acidity and are higher in alcohol.

Cool climate Chardonnay: These Chardonnays have more citrus flavours, which may include apple, lemon and lime. These Chardonnays are usually higher in acidity, because the grapes take longer to ripen in these cooler climates.

Serving temperature & ageing potential: Suggested serving temperature: 9˚C – 12˚C. Chardonnay can be aged, and is usually consumed within 1-6 years.

Food & Wine: Some of the most common foods paired with Chardonnay include shellfish, oily fish, creamy chicken breast, cream-based soups and soft cheeses.

Fun Facts:

• Chardonnay is also known as:

• Morillon

• Pinot Chardonnay

• Feiner

• Weisser Burgander

• Champagnes that are made from 100% Chardonnay are known as Blanc de Blancs

Go ahead and celebrate today with a glass of your favourite Chardonnay!

#ChardonnayDay #Woodedchardonnay #Unwoodedchardonnay #SouthAfricanWine #DiVineWine #Wineknowledge