Origin
Chardonnay grape variety originated in the Burgundy wine region of eastern France. The Chardonnay grape itself is neutral, with many of the flavors commonly associated with the wine being derived from such influences as terroir and oak. It is vinified in many different styles, from the lean, crisply mineral wines of Chablis, France, to New World Wines with oak and tropical fruit flavors.
In cool climates, such as Chablis, Chardonnay wine tends to be medium to light body with noticeable acidity and flavors of green plum, apple, and pear.
In warmer locations, such as Marlborough region of New Zealand, the flavors become more citrus, peach, and melon. Wines that have gone through malolactic fermentation tend to have softer acidity and fruit flavors with buttery mouthfeel and hazelnut notes.
