Today is the 3rd annual celebration of the Chardonnay Grape. And why wouldn’t we celebrate this grape? The grape itself contributes much to the fact that Chardonnay is the world’s favorite white wine and America’s number one selling white varietal.

The reason why Chardonnay is so popular is because it is grown all around the world. The grape is suited for a wide variety of climates and soils. Chardonnay’s intrinsic blank canvas allows its flavors to be influenced by differences in soil, climate, and vineyard practices. This allows winemakers to put their own style into the wine.

Chardonnay may best be known for being ‘oaked,’ which means the oak influences the flavors. Chardonnays that are aged in oak are known to have aromas of vanilla, smoke, and caramel. While Chardonnays that unoaked or ‘naked’ have a lighter, fruitier flavor. Chardonnay is also produced using malolactic fermentation which imparts a buttery flavor.

Chardonnays are full bodied with flavors of citrus and melon. Chardonnay wines have low to medium acidity and beautiful golden hue. Chardonnay grapes doesn’t only produce Chardonnay wines, but other wines like Champagne, White Burgundy and Chablis can be made entirely form this grape or blended as the main component.

Don’t forget that all you have to do to join in on the party is to get some Chardonnay, drink, and talk about it. You can’t join in the conversation by using the hashtag #Chardday. Happy tweeting and drinking!