Wine on the Radio - May 8, 2003

Chardonnay Taste

Chardonnay is one of the most popular wines on the market.  When you pour a glass there are all kinds of possible ways for you to describe the taste experience.

The easiest way to describe taste is by comparing it to everyday things; with chardonnay certain fruit flavors seem to work best.

Here's what to taste for:

Tropical fruit flavors like pineapple and melon are often what you notice in chardonnay's from warm climates.

Spicy apples or lemony, citrusy flavors show up in those from cooler climes.

It's typically fruity flavors like these that dominate California or Australian Chards. You can almost even taste the sunshine in them.

Do you have to describe the taste to enjoy the wine?   Absolutely not.   But thinking about the flavors can help you understand the style, the region and the producer you like.   That makes for smarter buying choices.   And, it also gives you a heads up when deciding food matches.

Thinking about what you taste is a way to enhance your personal wine experience. So go ahead . . . think about the tastes, make some mental notes, and then taste some more!

Pop the cork™.

    Listen to the show.