Chardonnay

Chardonnay is the white grape of Burgundy. It holds the distinction of being the worlds most popular white wine. Typical flavors range from citrus fruit, to melons, peaches, apples and tropical fruit. Chardonnay handles oak very well and several new world styles use heavy amounts of toasted barrels. When combined with ageing it can also produce a very buttery flavor. Recently there has been some backlash to the heavy oak and butter style causing a shift towards the lighter, crisper acid wines similar to the Chablis region. Chardonnay is also one of the principal grapes in Champagne and sparkling wine production along with Pinot Noir.