Chardonnay

Recognised as one of the most versatile varietals, Chardonnay has the potential to wear many different faces. Sparkling or still, oaked or unoaked, cool or warm climate, young or aged, there are multiple diverging paths this much-loved grape can take before ending up in your glass – and don’t even get us started on malolactic fermentation. That’s why it’s important to know a bit about the wine before you jump in. You may be hoping for a rich, buttery, fireplace accompaniment, but instead get served a crisp, linear, Granny Smith acid number that makes you want to shuck oysters right on the seashore. With a little bit of understanding, we’re sure you’re going to find at least one bottle you’ll want in your wine rack. In fact, you’re probably going to find 10.

The full flavour spectrum: Try this quick and easy quiz to test your knowledge of wine varietals. We’ll give you the key flavours, and you name the grape. Here’s a really big clue… the answers are all the same. Take the quiz!