Wine & Food Education

CHARDONNAY

Who hasn't heard of this versatile white grape. It is one of the most widely planted white grapes in the world. In California, it is the #1 grape variety grown , with over 500,000 tons of grapes crushed in 2001.

Chardonnay is one of the most popular and well-known varietal white wines. Complex Chardonnays can have a buttery flavor with hints of lemon and tropical fruit and sometimes a nutty taste. The wine can be lush and full-bodied with a soft, dry finish. Many are oak aged.

In recent years, the lighter style Chardonnay has become more popular, with little or no oak aging and fruity flavors.

Recommended Chardonnays
Gallo of Sonoma Chardonnay
Turning Leaf Chardonnay
Redwood Creek Chardonnay

Recipes
Honey Grilled Tiger Prawns
Halibut in Butter Cream Sauce
Seafood Stuffed Mushrooms

  The Expert Answer
Virtual Tasting Room
Trio of Tastes
Wine Glossary
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
Wine Types
Chardonnay
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Sauvignon Blanc
Zinfandel
Pinot Noir
Pinot Grigio
Shiraz
White Zinfandel
Growing Regions
Australia
Italy
New Zealand
France
California
-- Sonoma County
-- Russian River
-- Dry Creek
-- Alexander Valley