One of the most famous wines you can buy is Chardonnay. But what do you really know about this wine? For starters, did you know that the original grape comes from burgundy in France? Chardonnay is used in Chablis wine. It is said to contribute to the fresh and steely flavour of the wine. But it also used in many other wines throughout France. This includes those found in the Cte de Beaune and the appellation of Chassagne-Montrachet. Chardonnay is also used in some wines produced in the south of France. These are perhaps not as well known as their northern counterparts. However, wines from the Cte Chalonnaise are still highly desired for their creamy and nutty taste.
Did you know that Chardonnay is also used to make champagne? In fact there are only three grapes that are permitted to be used in its production. Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are the other two grapes. They are allowed to be blended to make champagne or used individually. When Chardonnay is used on its own the champagne is known as Blanc de Blancs. If you are looking for Chardonnay grapes in the Champagne region then look no further than the Cte des Blancs. This is the name given to the chalky hills on which it is cultivated.
The character of Chardonnay changes substantially as we move south. It's traditional steely flavour becomes softer and almost buttery. Many people regard this as the true flavour of Chardonnay. But this can be toned down by blending the grape with other varieties. For instance, Chardonnay that is blended with Viognier will have a more fruity taste to it.
France is home to Chardonnay. But it can be found virtually anywhere that wine is produced. In England it grows in Sussex and is used to blend sparkling wine. In Italy it is blended with other white grapes that are grown locally. These tend to be found in the northern area of the country. Here Chardonnay is blended with the likes of Glera and Verdicchio. And let's not forget Spain. The Somontano is the region where it is most prevalent.
Chardonnay has really found its niche in the New World countries. It is grown in huge quantities across Australia, New Zealand, Argentina and Chile.
California probably has the biggest claim to Chardonnay. Here it is plentiful and grown in areas such as Napa and Sonoma. Landmark Chardonnay is a particularly good wine from Sonoma. It can also be found in Santa Barbara. These southern examples produce quality wines such as Wild Boy from Au Bon Climat.
Did you know that Chardonnay is also used to make champagne? In fact there are only three grapes that are permitted to be used in its production. Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are the other two grapes. They are allowed to be blended to make champagne or used individually. When Chardonnay is used on its own the champagne is known as Blanc de Blancs. If you are looking for Chardonnay grapes in the Champagne region then look no further than the Cte des Blancs. This is the name given to the chalky hills on which it is cultivated.
The character of Chardonnay changes substantially as we move south. It's traditional steely flavour becomes softer and almost buttery. Many people regard this as the true flavour of Chardonnay. But this can be toned down by blending the grape with other varieties. For instance, Chardonnay that is blended with Viognier will have a more fruity taste to it.
France is home to Chardonnay. But it can be found virtually anywhere that wine is produced. In England it grows in Sussex and is used to blend sparkling wine. In Italy it is blended with other white grapes that are grown locally. These tend to be found in the northern area of the country. Here Chardonnay is blended with the likes of Glera and Verdicchio. And let's not forget Spain. The Somontano is the region where it is most prevalent.
Chardonnay has really found its niche in the New World countries. It is grown in huge quantities across Australia, New Zealand, Argentina and Chile.
California probably has the biggest claim to Chardonnay. Here it is plentiful and grown in areas such as Napa and Sonoma. Landmark Chardonnay is a particularly good wine from Sonoma. It can also be found in Santa Barbara. These southern examples produce quality wines such as Wild Boy from Au Bon Climat.
About the Author:
For information on fine wine merchants and where to get mail order wine, please consult these resources.
No comments:
Post a Comment