Grape Varieties: Chardonnay

One of the most planted grape varieties in the world, Chardonnay is now found in virtually every wine region across the globe. Primarily used for sparkling wine production in the UK, there are increasing examples of varietal still whites and blends using the variety. Classically blended with red varieties, PInot Noir and Pinot Meunier, using the Champagne method, it is also used to make 100% Chardonnay méthode champenoise wines (Blanc de Blancs).

Early bud burst makes it susceptible to damage from frost but in the growing season it can be quite vigorous. Acids can be quite high at harvest (thus making it suitable for sparkling wine) but secondary fermentation (and malolactic fermentation) softens this out.

In sparkling wine, Chardonnay tends to provide the ‘backbone’ and ‘structure’ but flavour characteristics tend to include citrus, apple and orchard fruit notes. In still wines (some of the more successful examples have included those by Chapel Down and Simpsons) there is a similar flavour profile along with peach and apricot notes.