Few grapes have earned global acclaim like Chardonnay. From crisp, mineral-forward expressions to buttery, oak-aged ones, this versatile white varietal is grown and loved across continents. International Chardonnay Day is the perfect excuse to raise a glass to the world’s most beloved white wine and discover the best Chardonnay wines.
From longtime Chardonnay fans or budding wine enthusiasts who are eager to explore new variations of this time-tested favourite, this grape variety never ceases to surprise with its endless and diverse expressions. The key lies in understanding the grape’s many faces. In France, particularly in Burgundy and Chablis, Chardonnay is all about elegance, minerality, and finesse. In California and Argentina, it leans into riper fruit, richness, and often, a touch of oak. Closer to home in India, winemakers are exploring this grape with growing sophistication, balancing freshness and tropical vibrancy in every bottle.
To celebrate this International Chardonnay Day, we’ve handpicked the best Chardonnay wines to try—award-winning bottles from the IWSA 2024 Ultimate Drinking Guide that highlight just how beautifully this grape adapts to different terroirs. These bottles aren’t just delicious, they also prove that world-class Chardonnay can be found at every price point. Here’s what to pour this week.
Also Read: Three Award-Winning Malbecs Under ₹2000
Domaine Chanson Chablis AOC
This French classic delivers everything you expect from the cool-climate Chardonnay: freshness, finesse, and a steely minerality that lingers beautifully on the palate. The wine opens with aromas of green apple, white flowers, and a hint of chalk. On the palate, it’s dry, crisp, and linear, showcasing citrus zest, a whisper of almond, and an elegant saline finish.
This is a Chardonnay that’s all about subtlety and tension. It doesn’t rely on oak or heavy ripeness but instead focuses on structure and terroir expression. Pair it with oysters, grilled prawns, or sushi for a match made in gastronomic heaven. For anyone who wants to understand the classic French approach to Chardonnay, this bottle is a must-have.
Importer: Gusto Imports
Price: ₹6,999
Alamos Chardonnay
Straight from the Andes in Argentina, Alamos Chardonnay is a brilliant New World expression of this famed grape variety—richer, rounder, and more fruit-forward. This wine leads with tropical aromas of ripe pineapple, banana, and pear, balanced by notes of vanilla and light toast from oak ageing. The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy, yet it retains enough acidity to stay fresh and food-friendly.
What makes Alamos special is its accessibility and versatility. It’s the kind of wine you can pour at a casual dinner or a summer gathering and watch it impress even the pickiest guests. It pairs beautifully with butter chicken, creamy pastas, or mildly spiced kebabs. If you’re looking for a Chardonnay that’s rich but not overpowering, this one hits the sweet spot.
Importer: Brindco
Price: ₹2,895
Sula Dindori Reserve Chardonnay
Made in the heart of Nashik, the Sula Dindori Reserve Chardonnay proves just how far Indian winemaking has come. This award-winning wine is full of tropical Indian sunshine; think ripe mango, guava, and hints of citrus peel. A subtle use of oak adds depth with gentle notes of vanilla and nutmeg, while the wine’s acidity keeps it refreshing even in warm weather.
This Chardonnay is the perfect example of how Indian terroir gives this international grape a unique twist. It’s expressive yet balanced, vibrant yet smooth. It works wonderfully with Indian dishes like grilled paneer tikka, lemon fish curry, or even vegetable biryani. For a brunch or evening under the stars, this is an Indian white that holds its own effortlessly.
Producer: Sula Vineyards
Price: ₹1,150
Looking for amazing wine recommendations? Click here to check out the winners of the India Wines And Spirits Award 2024 edition.
