Chardonnay: Your Questions Answered
Rich, crisp, oaked or unoaked—Chardonnay is one of the most versatile and loved white wines in New Zealand. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
What is Chardonnay, and what does it taste like?
Chardonnay is a white grape variety known for its remarkable range. Depending on where and how it’s made, you’ll find it tasting of green apple, citrus, peach, or even vanilla and butter. It’s grown all over the world—from Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay to Burgundy and Napa—and comes in styles to suit every palate.
Is Chardonnay dry or sweet?
Chardonnay is almost always a dry white wine, even if it has a rich or creamy texture. What you’re tasting isn’t sugar, but ripe fruit, oak ageing, or malolactic fermentation. Most New Zealand Chardonnays fall firmly on the dry side.
What’s the difference between oaked and unoaked Chardonnay?
Oaked Chardonnays are often full-bodied and creamy, with notes of vanilla, spice, or toast from barrel ageing. Unoaked or “Chablis-style” Chardonnays are lighter and more refreshing—showing bright citrus, green apple, and mineral notes.
Why do some Chardonnays taste buttery?
Where's the butter? Creamy, buttery flavours in some Chardonnays comes from malolactic fermentation - a natural process that softens acidity and adds richness. It turns tart malic acid (think granny smith apples) into smoother lactic acid (like chilled milk), and produces diacetyl, the compound that gives butter its flavour.
It’s not about oak—it’s all in the fermentation.
Which food pairs best with Chardonnay?
Chardonnay is a versatile food wine. Unoaked styles are brilliant with seafood, salads, and goats’ cheese. Richer oaked versions pair beautifully with roast chicken, grilled salmon, creamy pasta dishes, or mushroom risotto.
What are our best known regions for Chardonnay in New Zealand?
This is a very strong generalisation of three regions which produce world-class examples of great Chardonnay.
Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay tends to be round, ripe, and powerful.
Marlborough Chardonnay is often fresher and crisper.
North Canterbury offers elegant, mineral-driven styles.
Can Chardonnay age well?
Yes—especially premium oaked Chardonnays. With time, they develop layers of hazelnut, honey, and spice. Unoaked Chardonnays are usually best enjoyed within a couple of years, while oaked styles can age for 5–10 years or more.
Is Chardonnay still popular?
Absolutely. Chardonnay including the Laurent Perrier Blanc de Blanc is the best selling varietal on The Wine List NZ. After a brief fall from favour, Chardonnay is back in a big way. Today’s wines are more refined and balanced—whether you prefer them crisp and clean or lush and full-bodied.
Where can I buy great Chardonnay online in NZ?
Right here, of course. We’ve curated a collection of our favourite Chardonnays—from mineral-driven to buttery and bold. Browse below and find your perfect bottle.
Ready to explore? Shop our Chardonnay Collection now and discover your next favourite