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Quick Facts:

California Style Chardonnay aged in new (unaged) oak barrels will have aromas like vanilla, butterscotch, toast, smoke, cloves, & cinnamon. On the palate, they are generally rich, buttery with prominent oak influence. In general, California Chardonnay has a creamy texture, light to medium acidity, & higher alcohol content. California Chardonnays that are aged in stainless steel will have that luxurious mouthfeel with more of a lean & clean palate.

French Chardonnay is complex with flavors of the earth, sea (especially Chablis / White Burgundy), & fruit. French Chardonnays typically have less alcohol but more acid and a richer flavor. Many French vineyards age Chardonnay in aged oak barrels while others use stainless steel or concrete vats to avoid oak’s strong influence on the wine.

Out of the three Champagne grapes — Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, & Chardonnay — Chardonnay is the only white grape. Any sparkling wine or Champagne made with 100% Chardonnay will be labeled “Blanc de Blancs” which translates to “White of Whites”. Conversely, when made without Chardonnay, they will be labeled “Blanc de Noirs” which translates to “White of Darks”.