More than ever, now is a great time to drink Chardonnay! As it’s America’s favorite grape, drinkers may think they know this ubiquitous white variety. But a look beyond the label reveals there’s an evolution taking place; from a diverse range of styles, to experiments in wine-making, to new regions making exciting, terroir-driven Chardonnays, there’s so much to discover. – THE CHARDONNAY [R]EVOLUTION.
Chardonnay remains America’s favorite grape. While there is a certain sense that Chardonnay generally is its own brand name there is even more to Chardonnay than meets the eye. The influence of place or winemaker are very significant in creating wines of great diversity. It also has the great ability to pair with many different foods, some you might expect and some you might not. Chardonnay [R]evolution is a fun website that explains a lot of the differences, broken down into four parts, I wrote four accompanying parts based on Table & Vine’s selection and my own opinions on Chardonnay.
Kendall-Jackson is the #1 producer of the #1 variety in America.
Tasting their two basic Chardonnays is a great exercise in establishing a baseline understanding of what this grape does in California.
Kendall Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay – $12.99
I loved Antonio Galloni’s description of this and think its 100% correct, “…reliably delicious, affordable wine that hits all the right notes for a barrel-fermented Chardonnay…” That sums it up very well. It is indeed ripe and delicious, with golden apple, vanilla and honey notes that has appropriate balance. Easy to drink as a cocktail without food, or with traditional Chardonnay foods. Order the Kendall Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay now.
Kendall Jackson Avant Chardonnay – $13.99
KJ cut its teeth on the reputation of the Vintner’’s Reserve Chardonnay, barrel-fermented, buttery and with a kiss of sweetness, but somewhere along the way they heard the dissenting opinion and decided to make an unoaked version to offer the counterpoint. Stainless steel fermentation gives an unadulterated look at Chardonnay. This is still a ripe expression, with tropical fruit, but here the apple flavor is green apple and the citrus more lemony. Delicious fresh clean Chardonnay here. Order the Kendall Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay now.
