When it comes to elegant and versatile white wines, Chardonnay takes center stage. Chardonnay has captured the hearts of wine lovers around the world with its variety of shapes and characters. In this article, we delve into the world of Chardonnay.
1. Why is Chardonnay so popular?
The Chardonnay grape originated in Burgundy, France, is known as the “Queen of Grapes”. If Cabernet Sauvignon is synonymous with red wine, then Chardonnay is synonymous with white wine. , which plays an immeasurable role in white wine.
The most important reason for the popularity of Chardonnay is that it is the most diverse and adaptable grape variety in the wine world. Some people describe Chardonnay as a piece of white cloth. Wherever you plant it, it will be painted with local characteristics. Therefore, wines made from Chardonnay have complex and changeable styles, which can well highlight the characteristics of terroir and climate.
2. What are the characteristics of Chardonnay
Due to the different terroirs and brewing methods of the production areas, Chardonnay has an ever-changing style. :
Cool producing areas:
Has the aroma of green fruits such as green apples and pears, citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges, and plants.
Warm production areas:
Has the aroma of tropical fruits such as pineapple, star fruit, and papaya
Aged in oak barrels:
There will be aromas of coconut, toast, butter and vanilla, and after aging there will be aromas of honey and nuts.
3. How to taste Chardonnay in summer?
For summer dinners, a chilled Links Chardonnay dry white wine is undoubtedly the best partner. After chilling in the refrigerator, let it sober up at room temperature for 5 minutes, which can better release the aroma and taste of the wine.
It has a refreshing taste and a light fruity aroma. When paired with light food such as fish and seafood salad, it can not only bring out the deliciousness of the food, but also increase the refreshment of the table. In the hot summer, while enjoying delicious food, you can also feel the coolness brought by wine.
4. Chardonnay tasting:
Variety：100% Chardonnay
Alcohol：14%vol
Production：areaLanguedoc in the south of France
Appropriate drinking temperature：around 6°C
Storage method：Lie down, store at 8℃-25℃, avoid direct sunlight
Taste Review：Typical Burgundy style Chardonnay, this wine presents a beautiful golden yellow color, exudes a rich aroma of stone fruits such as peaches and apricots, accompanied by vanilla, cream and toast; the entrance is fruity and full of flavor Rich, full-bodied, with a long finish.
Meal Pairing：Drink with meat, such as fish, chicken, turkey, pork ribs, lobster, crab, scallops, shrimp, clams, oysters, etc.
5. Wine-Searcher’s Best Chardonnays in the World:
- Kongsgaard The Judge, Napa 96 points $956
- Peter Michael Point Rouge, Sonoma 96 points $510
- Aubert Wines Lauren Vineyard, Sonoma Coast 96 points $259
- Aubert Wines CIX, Sonoma Coast 96 points $213
- Morlet Family Vineyards Coup de Coeur, Sonoma 96 points $183
- Aubert Wines Eastside Vineyard, Russian River Valley 95 points $222
- Aubert Wines UV-SL Vineyards, Sonoma Coast 95 points $187
- Kistler Cuvée Cathleen, Sonoma Valley 95 points $206
- Peter Michael Cuvée Indigene, Sonoma Coast 95 points $258
- Marcassin Estate, Sonoma Coast 95 points $704
Conclusion:
In the realm of chardonnays, these exquisite selections stand out for their richness, flavor diversity, balance, age-worthy potential, and culinary compatibility. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a quiet moment, these chardonnays promise an unforgettable wine experience that appeals to both the novice and the connoisseur.
