California Republic Chardonnay 2015 750ml

Chardonnay is one of the most widely planted varieties. Although best known as the white grape of Burgundy and the cornerstone of Champagne, it is produced to a huge spectrum of wine styles. From a creamy, buttery, oak-aged to a lean and crisp sparkling wine, Chardonnay is versatile, approachable, and greatly revered.

Chardonnay is the product of Gouais Blanc the parent of many well-known varieties including Riesling and Pinot (i.e. Pinot Noir or a mutation thereof). Pinot and Gouais are thought to have been the principle varieties in Burgundy in the Middle Ages.

The name is thought to derive from the Maconnais village of Chardonnay. It is the settlement not the grape variety that is referenced on a bottle of Macon Chardonnay. Perhaps it is strange that the wines produced there are inexpensive, representing good value for money.