Have you ever tried two Chardonnay wines and wondered how they could taste so different? One is crisp, lemony and refreshing, while the other is rich, creamy and almost buttery. Yet both are made from exactly the same grape. So, what's going on?
The answer lies in Chardonnay's remarkable versatility. Unlike some white grape varieties that have a distinctive flavour profile, Chardonnay takes on the character of where it grows and how the winemaker chooses to make it.
For instance, Chardonnay from cooler regions often tastes fresh and citrusy, with flavours of lemon and green apple. In warmer regions, you might find riper notes of peach, melon and tropical fruit. And if the wine has been aged in oak barrels, it may develop flavours of vanilla and toast. Some winemaking techniques also give Chardonnay its signature buttery, creamy character.
That's why ordering a Chardonnay doesn't always tell you what to expect unless you know about the grape variety.
But once you understand the different styles, choosing one becomes much easier.
In this guide, we'll break down what Chardonnay is, why it tastes so different from bottle to bottle, and how to find a style you'll enjoy. We'll also introduce you to Chardonnay wines rated by Sonal C Holland MW, so you have a few expert-recommended bottles to start with.
What is Chardonnay?
Chardonnay is one of the most widely planted white grape varieties in the world. On its own, the grape has fairly gentle flavours. This is why it reflects its surroundings so clearly. The climate, the vineyard and the winemaker’s choices all shape the final taste.
As a result, Chardonnay comes in a wide range of styles, from lean, mineral Chablis in France to rich, buttery wines from California.
Where does Chardonnay come from?
Chardonnay’s home is Burgundy, in eastern France. There is even a village called Chardonnay in the region.
What does Chardonnay taste like?
Climate plays a big role in how Chardonnay tastes. Generally, the warmer the region, the riper and fuller the wine.
Cooler climates: crisp and mineral
Cooler conditions give Chardonnay higher acidity and a lighter body. Expect green apple, pear, lemon and lime, often with a wet-stone, mineral note. Chablis, in the north of Burgundy, is the classic example.
If you enjoy fresh, citrus-led Chardonnay, try True Nomad Chardonnay 2025 from Chile. It scored 87 points (Recommended) and is citrusy, fresh and mellow. Closer to home, Fratelli Chardonnay 2025 (85 points, Recommended) is citrusy, refreshing and easygoing.
Moderate climates: balanced and elegant
In moderate climates such as Burgundy’s Côte d’Or, Chardonnay gains more body and complexity. Flavours of lemon, peach and melon meet subtle oak.
Jean Claude Boisset, Bourgogne Chardonnay 2024 (90 points, Outstanding) shows this balance well. It is expressive, balanced and refined. Meanwhile, Domaine MontRosé Chardonnay 2024 from France scored 92 points and is peachy, taut and enjoyable. It also carries the Best Value Buy seal, which marks affordable wines that are delicious and offer excellent value.
Warmer climates: rich and tropical
Warm regions such as California and Australia produce full-bodied, fruit-forward Chardonnay with lower acidity. Think ripe peach, pineapple, banana and butterscotch.
Kendall Jackson VR Chardonnay 2024 from the United States scored 95 points, placing it in the Icon band. It is lush, buttery and sumptuous.
India’s warm climate also suits riper styles. For instance, Sula Dindori Chardonnay 2025 (91 points, Best Value Buy) is tropical, creamy and a true crowd-pleaser.
Why do some Chardonnays taste buttery?
The winemaker’s choices matter just as much as the climate. Three techniques shape Chardonnay’s style:
- Oak ageing adds vanilla, toast and baking spice, along with a creamy texture.
- Malolactic fermentation turns sharp malic acid (the kind found in green apples) into softer lactic acid (the kind found in milk). This gives a rounder, buttery feel.
- Lees ageing keeps the wine in contact with spent yeast cells. This adds richness, body and nutty flavours.
Not every Chardonnay uses these methods. Some winemakers skip oak entirely to keep the fruit fresh.
For a buttery style, try SDU Reserva Chardonnay 2023 from India (87 points, Best Value Buy). It is ripe, buttery and easygoing.
Want more wine recommendations? Read our guide to the best Indian white wines or explore every expert-rated wine on IWS Ratings.