Wine Appreciation: Chardonnay

When someone asks for a "glass of white wine", the implication is that they are asking for a glass of Chardonnay.

The two are almost interchangeable, such is the overwhelming popularity of Chardonnay. It is known and drunk all over the world, second only to Cabernet Sauvignon, and is now grown in South America, South Africa, the United States and New Zealand.

In fact it is so popular that in England a group of wine buffs have got together to form the ABC Club.

The ABC stands for "Anything But Chardonnay."

Australia, however, did not catch on to the rush until the late 1960s and early 1970s, but has now become one of the world's acknowledged quality producers.

Like many classic wines, it originated in Burgundy, France, and its impact on wine palates around the world has been incredible.

Features of Chardonnay are:

The taste/aroma is grapefruit, lemon, lime, with maybe a hint of apricot.

Cellaring? If you wish. But, really, buy something that is two years old and there is no time like the present!

Just as it dominates the planet, Chardonnay covers practically the whole food range. Everything from chicken and grilled meats to exotic creamy seafood.

Regions: Regions. Chardonnay is grown in the cooler climes of Western Australia, Victoria's Yarra Valley, Tasmania and the Adelaide Hills, and warmer regions including the Hunter Valley and McLaren Vale.

Labels to look for include Lindeman's Padthaway, Lindeman's Bin 65, McWilliam's Mt Pleasant, Seaview, Peppercorn Brook, Yalumba Oxford Landing.

Be part of the movement!

For a full list of Chardonnay wines tasted by our Wine Connoisseur uncork it here