A classic favorite among wine-lovers is a nice glass of Chardonnay. The creamy, buttery sip is a welcome taste after a long day of work or during a fun night out. Although it’s a very popular wine, not many people know the complexities of the wine.
The Grape
Every major winery plants Chardonnay in their vineyards. Chardonnay being planted so often affects the structure and fruit quality of the wine that is produced. If the climate is cooler, the Chardonnay wine will have more acidity and a light body. When the climate is warmer, the Chardonnay will come out much heavier. The grape Chardonnay is made from is high in acidity than other wine grapes and can have tastes that vary from citrusy to overblown tropical fruits.
Vinification Processes
During the vinification processes is where chardonnay will get its aromas and variety of flavors. The type of vinification processes used for chardonnay is malolactic fermentation. It’s a secondary fermentation process that turns sharp malic acids into soft lactic ones, It’s this process of fermentation that adds the buttery aromas and flavors. Chardonnay’s process through new oak aging gives it those vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg flavors.
Taste Profile
Chardonnay has a huge taste profile. It’s fruit flavors range from apple, pineapple, peach, passionfruit, lemon, and more. The other flavors of chardonnay range around more oaky and earthy flavors. Herbs and flower flavoring vary from lemon zest, vanilla, honeysuckle, apple blossom, and more. The wide variety of tastes and flavors makes chardonnay a delicious canvas for many winemakers.
Food Pairings
The are many delicious foods that Chardonnay goes very well with. Many people love to pair a cold glass of chardonnay with soft cheese, but the options go far beyond this. Fish such as Atlantic salmon, trout, cod, and lobster can be made even more delicious with Chardonnay. When meats such as chicken, turkey, or pork loins are seasoned with herbs like parsley, lemon zest, white pepper, and thyme, it pairs perfectly with Chardonnay.
While there are many types of wine to choose from, Chardonnay is one with many faces. Depending on the vineyard or region, one glass could be much better than the other. As a popular choice, it’s important to explore the wine and know how it’s ins and outs.