Chardonnay is the world's leading white wine grape, a Vitis vinifera cultivar that arose in the Burgundy region of France as a natural cross between Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc. It produces small yellow-green berries in compact clusters and ripens early to mid season. Remarkably adaptable, it grows successfully in cool Chablis, warm California, and everywhere in between, and is essential to Champagne and still white wines. The wine style ranges from crisp and mineral to rich and buttery depending on climate and oak. The vine buds early, making it vulnerable to spring frost, and its tight clusters can be prone to bunch rot in damp conditions. Growers value its reliability, productivity, and the broad range of wines it can produce.
Flavor Profile
Versatile flavor ranging from green apple, citrus, and mineral in cool climates to tropical fruit and butter in warm ones.
Visual Characteristics
Small, compact cylindrical clusters of round yellow-green berries.
Growing Tips
Buds early so protect from spring frost; its tight clusters benefit from good airflow to prevent bunch rot.
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.