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It is believed to be named after the village of Chardonnay in the Mâconnais region of France, where Pouilly-Fuissé is currently produced and it is possible that the variety was first bred there.

The white varietal of Burgundy and perhaps the best known and loved white varietal in the world. It is vigorous, easy to grow but susceptible to spring frosts as witnessed regularly by the vigernons of Chablis. It grows well in cooler climates but can lose acidity if picked late, especially in warmer regions such as Australia and California. Its typical varietal characteristics are honeyed, tropical fruit flavours with toasty, buttery nuances.

It ages well and is totally at home with oak, which imparts those delicious vanilla and butterscotch tones so beloved of Burgundy drinkers. Its diversity of style can perhaps account for some of its worldwide appeal.

In Spain, Chardonnay has been played with for many years and has produced interesting results in many regions, some of which include La Mancha, Somontano, and the many varied regions of Catalonia. Codorníu was one of Spain’s first Cava houses to recognize its potential in producing the Spanish sparkling wine Cava. Look for wines using Chardonnay in Spain where you find it lending backbone and structure in blend with local grapes.i

It is covered by the regulations on sparkling wines, and by those of Costers del Segre and Navarra DOs.