Chardonnay: Lush & Eclectic

In the heart of Virginia’s wine country, you’ll discover wines that honor tradition and others that take a daring turn. In both instances, Virginia’s winemakers have taken classic grape varieties and crafted wines with distinctive Virginian character.

With a rich tapestry of over thirty varieties cultivated, winemakers and viticulturists have become fluent in the language of the land. By carefully selecting and planting grapes that harmonize with Virginia’s diverse soils, they consistently yield high-quality fruit, forging a path toward excellence year after year.

Few people would approach a Chardonnay, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon expecting something new. Until you taste those from Virginia, which upend every expectation with a character all their own. Read along for Virginia’s fresh take on familiar grapes.

Chardonnay: Lush & Eclectic

The Commonwealth’s most planted white grape is known for its chameleon-like character.

Chardonnay, one of the world’s most popular grape varieties, has found new life in Virginia’s diverse terroir. The state’s mix of climates and soils allows this classic grape to express itself in fresh and exciting ways. This renewed expression in Virginia has given Chardonnay a lush and eclectic character that stands out in the American wine scene.

Being one of the most versatile and widely planted varieties in the world, Chardonnay is celebrated for its adaptability to various climates and winemaking styles. Originating from Burgundy, France, it thrives in diverse regions around the world. The grape’s adaptability has made it a global favorite, resulting in a wide array of expressions from refreshing, mineral-driven wines to opulent, oak-aged versions.

On the palate, Virginia Chardonnay offers a delightful range of contrasts. In cooler regions, it delivers bright acidity with flavors of green apple, pear, and citrus, often enhanced by a steely, mineral edge. Warmer climates, on the other hand, produce Chardonnays with more tropical fruit notes—such as pineapple, mango, and ripe peach—paired with a creamy texture from malolactic fermentation and oak aging. This diversity ensures there’s a Virginia Chardonnay to suit every preference, whether you seek a refreshing white wine or a rich, full-bodied experience.

Chardonnay pairs beautifully with an astounding range of foods. It complements everything from chicken and turkey to white mushrooms and asparagus. In Virginia, it pairs exceptionally well with the state’s abundant seafood, including crab, clams, and oysters. It also works harmoniously with any soft or semi-soft cow’s milk cheese, making it a versatile choice for a wide array of dishes.

View Virginia wineries producing Chardonnay.