Looking for a classic and versatile white wine? Look no further than Chardonnay, the most popular white wine on the planet. They are available at any fine wine importer Toronto. Served on all continents and pairing well with almost any dish, its adaptability is legendary.
Origin of Chardonnay
Chardonnay originated in the Burgundy region of central France. In that region, it is known as White Burgundy. It became very popular and spread to other regions of France. Of particular note, winemakers in the Champagne Region noted its excellent qualities and began to cultivate it there. Chardonnay is now a major ingredient for some sparkling wines produced from that region.
Variable Regions – Variable Tastes
Also of interest, the growers in Champagne soon noticed that the Chardonnay grapes grown there had qualities that were distinctly different from those in Burgundy. The ability of a grape to take on the subtleties of the region in which it grows is known as terroir. As the Chardonnay grape spread to different wine-growing regions around the world, its incredible terroir became widely known. Some areas produce a Chardonnay that is ripe and full of tropical flavors, while in other areas the grape has flavors of apple as well as earthy fall aromas.
Chardonnay Facts
Here are a few points about Chardonnay that you might find interesting:
- The Chardonnay grape can grow in almost any soil and climate where grapes are known to grow.
- Some Chardonnay has a “buttery” taste, caused when the winemaker allows “Malolactic Fermentation” to occur.
- If you don’t like the oak taste in some Chardonnays, buy “Unoaked” chardonnay.
- The robust flavor of chardonnay is a rule-breaker – it pairs well with red meats, unlike so many other white wines.
So, if you are looking for a quality and adaptable white wine for yourself or your guests, Chardonnay will probably fit the occasion.
