CHARDONNAY WINE

Q: What’s the difference between oaked and unoaked Chardonnay?

Unoaked Chardonnay is fresh, crisp and citrus-led Oaked Chardonnay is fuller-bodied, with flavours of butter, vanilla and ripe fruit Choosing between them depends on whether you prefer a lighter or richer style.

Chardonnay is one of the world’s most popular white wines, loved for its versatility and wide range of styles. From light, crisp and citrus-driven wines to richer, buttery expressions, there’s a Chardonnay to suit every taste.Classic regions such as Chablis produce fresh, mineral-driven styles, while Burgundy is known for richer wines. In Australia, top regions like Margaret River and Yarra Valley deliver high-quality Chardonnay with a balance of freshness and fruit. Explore our range to find a Chardonnay that’s right for you.

Leogate Vicki's Choice Hunter Valley Chardonnay 2023
"Beautifully crafted" (Halliday) 95pt, Gold Hunter Valley Chardonnay from the impressive Leogate.
Australia
Chardonnay
$70.00 RRP
from $65.99 when you mix 12+
Leogate H10 Reserve Hunter Valley Chardonnay 2023
"…bold, intensely flavoured" Hunter Reserve Chardonnay with scores of 95 & 94pts.
Australia
Chardonnay
$42.00 RRP
from $39.99 when you mix 12+

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What does Chardonnay wine taste like?

Chardonnay can range from fresh and citrus-driven to rich and creamy, depending on how it’s made. Expect flavours of lemon, green apple and grapefruit in lighter styles, or peach, vanilla and butter in fuller, oak-aged wines.

Is chardonnay dry or sweet?

Most Chardonnay wines are dry. Some styles may taste richer or creamier, but this comes from ripeness and oak ageing rather than added sweetness.

What’s the difference between oaked and unoaked Chardonnay?

Unoaked Chardonnay is fresh, crisp and citrus-led
Oaked Chardonnay is fuller-bodied, with flavours of butter, vanilla and ripe fruit

Choosing between them depends on whether you prefer a lighter or richer style.

What food pairs well with Chardonnay?

Chardonnay pairs well with a wide range of dishes.

lighter styles work well with seafood, chicken and salads
richer styles pair with creamy pasta, roast chicken and pork

How do I choose a good Chardonnay?

Choose based on your preferred style:

for fresh and zesty wines → look for cooler climate or unoaked Chardonnay
for richer, fuller wines → choose oak-aged or warmer climate styles

Australian Chardonnay often offers a balance between freshness and fruit.

Why shop Chardonnay at Laithwaites?

Our Chardonnay range includes everything from crisp, modern styles to rich, oak-aged favourites, sourced from top regions in Australia and around the world.