Chardonnay

Chardonnay is one of the world's most famous white grape varieties and originally comes from Burgundy. It is exceptionally versatile, producing wines that can be lean, mineral and citrus-driven or creamy, nutty and powerful with oak influence.

Typical aromas range from apple, pear and citrus to peach, melon, butter, hazelnut and subtle toast. Important regions include Burgundy, Chablis, the Côte de Beaune, Mâconnais, Champagne, California, Australia, South Africa, Austria and many other wine-growing areas.

What does Chardonnay taste like?

Chardonnay is shaped strongly by climate and winemaking. Cool-climate styles show lemon, green apple, pear, chalk and crisp acidity, while warmer regions can bring ripe peach, melon, pineapple and a rounder texture.

With malolactic fermentation and oak ageing, Chardonnay may develop butter, cream, hazelnut, vanilla, toast and spice. The best examples balance richness with freshness, so the wine feels layered rather than heavy.

Where does Chardonnay come from?

Chardonnay originated in Burgundy and remains one of the region's defining grapes, from the mineral wines of Chablis to the more textured whites of the Côte de Beaune and Mâconnais. It is also one of the key grapes of Champagne.

Today Chardonnay is grown almost everywhere wine is made. California, Australia, South Africa, Chile, New Zealand, Austria, Italy and many other regions produce styles that reflect both local climate and cellar choices.

What styles of Chardonnay wine are there?

Chardonnay can be crisp and unoaked, with citrus, apple and mineral freshness. These wines are often direct, elegant and excellent with seafood or lighter dishes.

It can also be barrel-fermented or oak-aged, resulting in fuller wines with creaminess, toast, nuts and spice. In Champagne and other traditional-method sparkling wines, Chardonnay contributes finesse, acidity and ageing potential.


What food pairs with Chardonnay?

Fresh, unoaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully with oysters, grilled fish, prawns, sushi, salads and goat's cheese. Its acidity and clean fruit make it a versatile choice for lighter cuisine.

Richer Chardonnay works with roast chicken, creamy pasta, lobster, scallops, mushroom dishes, pork and soft cheeses. The key is matching the weight of the dish to the weight and oak influence of the wine.

Buy Chardonnay wine online

Chardonnay offers enormous variety, from razor-sharp mineral whites to generous, creamy and age-worthy wines. Few grapes show the influence of place and winemaking quite so clearly.

Browse our Chardonnay selection to find elegant white wines for every taste, whether you prefer crisp freshness, subtle oak or luxurious texture.




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