Just as cabernet sauvignon has become the most popular high-quality red-wine grape, Chardonnay has taken the lead for first-class white wine grapes — and with even greater passion. It’s one of the grapes used in making fine French champagnes and white Burgundies. In California, the wine produced from this grape is referred to simply as “Chardonnay.” These complex wines are generally rich, buttery, fruity and on the dry side. Some will age up to 10 years. Chardonnay grapes are also grown in parts of Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Italy and Spain. See also burgundy wines.
