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Chardonnay
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 Categories A, B and C
Photo credit Entav
Photo credit Entav
In France, Chardonnay does best in Burgundy, its region of origin. It is also cultivated in Champagne and the south of France. It is now grown all over the world. Spain, Bulgaria, California, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand are some of the largest producers. This grape variety is grows quite vigorously and is usually long pruned. As Chardonnay is an early variety, it may be affected by spring frosts. It is susceptible to powdery mildew and especially to gray rot, as the grapes are very thin-skinned. It has small bunches and grapes. This grape variety has excellent potential for high quality wine production. Thanks to its high sugar and acid levels, Chardonnay can be used to make a variety of wines: dry or sweet still and sparkling wines. Chardonnay wines are full-bodied and soft with hazelnut, toast, tropical fruit, and buttery aromas. This noble grape variety is enhanced by fermentation and aging in oak barrels.