Chardonnay grape

Chardonnay is a grape variety that is particularly well suited to the production of sparkling wines thanks to its intrinsic qualities: high acidity, subtlety of aromas, adaptability to cold climates, ability to develop interesting autolytic notes.

Autolytic styles of sparkling wines require quite long and expensive aging on lees. It is generally accepted that it takes at least 15 months of aging wines on lees to begin to develop aromas linked to the degradation of the lees. Therefore, it is important that the grape variety used to make the base wine is well suited to this process by developing a certain complexity and aromatic harmony. The subtle apple and citrus aromas and flavors of Chardonnay complement rather than compete with biscuit or pastry aromas from yeast autolysis (decomposition of dead cells that give the typical aromas).

A glass of Champagne (Chardonnay – Blanc de Blancs)

Moreover, its level of acidity being naturally rather high (especially when harvested early) perfectly complements the effervescence (also called ‘the quality of the bubble’). A high level of acidity also gives the finished wine a better ability to age (the best Blanc de Blancs, 100% Chardonnay, can be kept for several decades without problem). Thanks to its level of acidity, the autolytic aromas will continue to evolve during this aging process, thus offering more aromatic complexity. It is also more disease resistant than Pinot Noir, the other grape used worldwide to make sparkling wines (see Blanc de Noirs).

Furthermore, Chardonnay is an early grape variety which makes it very suitable for cold climates (too cold, for example, to make quality red wines) and allows it to develop aromatic complexity early (thus avoiding early frosts) while maintaining a high level of acidity and a low level of alcohol (two essential qualities to best react to the process of making sparkling wines). As a result, Chardonnay does not develop undesirable aromas linked to the under-ripeness of the grapes.

Additionally, Chardonnay is also more disease resistant than Pinot Noir, the other grape used worldwide to make sparkling wines (see Blanc de Noirs).

Finally, Chardonnay yields can be high in the best years without loss of quality, making it an attractive option for winemakers.

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Wine is a gourmet treasure, do not abuse alcohol!

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Wine is a gourmet treasure, do not abuse alcohol!

None of this content has been sponsored

I did not receive any gifts or free samples that could be related to this article

www.oray-wine.com