Chardonnay is a versatile white wine that has captured the hearts of wine lovers worldwide. Known for its broad range of flavours from crisp and fruity to rich and buttery—Chardonnay shines when paired with food, enhancing both the wine and the meal. In this guide, we’ll explore how to pair Chardonnay with various dishes, offering something for every occasion.
What Foods Go Best with Chardonnay?
Chardonnay’s flavours vary widely based on where and how it’s produced. Unoaked Chardonnay tends to be crisp, with citrus and green apple notes, making it perfect for lighter dishes. Oaked Chardonnay, on the other hand, has a creamy texture with hints of vanilla and spice, which pairs well with richer foods.
How Does Seafood Pair with Chardonnay?
Seafood and Chardonnay are a match made in heaven. The wine’s acidity balances with the delicate flavours of seafood, enhancing its freshness and making it an ideal choice for pairing.
- Light Seafood: Unoaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully with light seafood such as shrimp, crab, and oysters. The wine’s crisp acidity complements the natural sweetness of these dishes. Pair a glass of unoaked Chardonnay with oysters or a shrimp cocktail for a refreshing start.
- Rich Seafood: Oaked Chardonnay, with its buttery and creamy notes, is perfect for richer seafood like lobster with butter sauce, scallops, or salmon. Its fuller body complements the texture of these dishes, especially when paired with creamy sauces. Try it with a lobster tail with garlic butter or pan-seared scallops for a delicious experience.
For those interested in American varietals, American Chardonnay offers great choices to pair with seafood dishes.
Does Poultry Work Well with Chardonnay?
Poultry dishes are a natural fit with Chardonnay. The wine’s range of flavours complements both light and richer preparations of chicken, turkey, and duck.
- Grilled Chicken: A light, unoaked Chardonnay pairs well with grilled or roasted chicken, especially when seasoned with herbs or a light marinade. The wine’s acidity brings out the flavours of the dish without overpowering it.
- Roasted Turkey: For a richer poultry dish like roasted turkey, oaked Chardonnay is an excellent choice. Its creamy mouthfeel and subtle spice notes elevate the turkey's flavour, making it perfect for a dinner party or holiday meal.
Can You Pair Cheese with Chardonnay?
Chardonnay’s flavours pair wonderfully with a variety of cheeses, making it a fantastic choice for cheese boards or appetisers.
- Soft Cheeses: Creamy cheeses like brie and camembert pair well with oaked Chardonnay. The wine’s buttery notes match the soft texture of these cheeses, creating an indulgent experience.
- Nutty Cheeses: Gouda and other nutty, semi-soft cheeses are a great match for both unoaked and oaked Chardonnay. The wine’s acidity balances the cheese’s richness, making for a satisfying combination.
Consider adding Sauvignon Blanc to your cheese board for a contrasting, crisp option that complements sharper cheeses.
What Vegetarian Dishes Pair with Chardonnay?
For those who enjoy plant-based dishes, Chardonnay brings out the flavours in vegetarian meals, especially those with creamy sauces or roasted vegetables.
- Creamy Pasta or Risotto: Oaked Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with creamy pasta dishes, such as fettuccine Alfredo or mushroom risotto. Its rich texture balances the creaminess of these dishes, while its acidity keeps the flavours light.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like carrots, squash, and sweet potatoes work well with both unoaked and oaked Chardonnay. The caramelised flavours enhance the wine’s fruit notes, making for a balanced pairing.
- Mushroom Dishes: Earthy mushroom dishes pair beautifully with Chardonnay. Try oaked Chardonnay with a wild mushroom risotto or roasted mushroom medley for a delightful vegetarian option.
For other wine options that pair well with vegetarian dishes, Pinot Gris collection offers an excellent choice.
Does Chardonnay Go Well with Dessert?
While not always the go-to for dessert, Chardonnay can pair beautifully with certain sweets, especially fruit-based or creamy treats.
- Fruit-Based Desserts: Desserts like apple pie, pear tart, or lemon bars work beautifully with unoaked Chardonnay. The wine’s acidity balances the sweetness of the fruit, offering a refreshing end to a meal.
- Creamy Desserts: Custard-based desserts like panna cotta or crème brûlée pair well with oaked Chardonnay. The wine’s creamy mouthfeel and subtle spice notes create a complementary pairing that feels indulgent and balanced.
For a simple yet satisfying dessert, serve a fruit plate with a glass of unoaked Chardonnay for a refreshing and light finish.
Key Tips for Pairing Chardonnay with Food
To elevate your Chardonnay pairings, keep a few essential tips in mind:
- Match Weight and Texture: Light, unoaked Chardonnay pairs best with lighter dishes like seafood and salads, while fuller-bodied, oaked Chardonnay suits richer foods like roasted meats or creamy pastas.
- Consider Acidity: Chardonnay’s acidity is versatile, making it a great partner for both fatty and acidic dishes. This balance keeps both the wine and food in harmony.
- Experiment with Pairings: Chardonnay is highly adaptable, so don’t hesitate to try it with a variety of dishes, from vegetarian options to desserts.
Chardonnay’s flexibility makes it a great choice for pairing with a range of dishes, and we have options to suit every taste. Whether you're enjoying a simple weeknight meal or hosting a special dinner, there’s a Chardonnay to elevate your experience.
If you’d like help selecting the perfect Chardonnay, explore our Chardonnay collection or contact us for personalised recommendations. Here’s to discovering your next favourite pairing!