Chardonnay
White wine grape variety
Also known as Chard, Morillon (Austria)
Chardonnay is a white wine grape with signature aromas of lemon, stone fruit, apple. Structure: Medium(+) body, Medium acidity, Medium alcohol. Often confused with Sauvignon Blanc and Trebbiano Toscano.
Recognition cues
First checks
- Judge texture first: Chardonnay often reads broader than aromatic whites.
- Check for apple-citrus fruit with possible oak/lees complexity.
Confidence signals
- Medium-plus body with apple core
- Integrated oak or lees texture
Aromas
Signature
Common
Occasional
Commonly confused with
Classic anchors
- Classic regions: Burgundy · California · Margaret River · Casablanca Valley
- Classic styles: Unoaked crisp still white · Oak-aged full-bodied benchmark white
Common questions
Is Chardonnay a red or white grape variety?
Chardonnay is a white wine grape variety.
What does Chardonnay smell and taste like?
Signature aromas of Chardonnay include lemon, stone fruit and apple. Structural profile: Medium(+) body, Medium acidity, Medium alcohol.
What blind-tasting cues distinguish Chardonnay?
Documented tells for Chardonnay: Judge texture first: Chardonnay often reads broader than aromatic whites. and Check for apple-citrus fruit with possible oak/lees complexity..
What is Chardonnay most often confused with in blind tasting?
Chardonnay is most commonly confused with Sauvignon Blanc, Trebbiano Toscano and Macabeo. Resolve the call with structure and signature aromas.
Where is Chardonnay grown?
Classic regions for Chardonnay include Burgundy, California, Margaret River and Casablanca Valley.