Why You Should Give Chardonnay Another Chance

Food editor Kristen Eppich dishes on the white wine that’s having a moment.
If you’re not fond of chardonnay based on your memories of flabby oaky whites, it’s time to revisit the grape. Cool climate chardonnays being produced in Canada and around the world offer a fresh, crisp take on their warm climate counterparts.

I recently spent three days at the International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration (i4C) in Niagara and although I went into it appreciating cool climate chardonnay, I left being a full-on fan. Here’s what I learned about it, and why you should seek out a bottle during your next visit to the wine shop.

The flavors: Green apple, ripe peach, mango, fresh citrus, tropical fruit and ripe pear.

The characteristics: Rich, robust, fresh, vibrant, and elegant. Cool climate wines are not associated with being creamy or buttery.

What to pair it with: Lobster, fish, cheese, creamy dishes, popcorn, pork or anything with truffles. It can even stand up to steak.

Where it’s grown: Everywhere from South Africa to Oregon, Ontario to France and many places in between.

Fun fact: Cool climate chardonnay is the most versatile white wine, and the world’s most popular grape.