Hey there, Chardonnay lover. I see you (and get you!). Loyal to your buttery, oaky queen, or maybe you're a fan of the crisp and clean Chablis-style. Either way, I get it. Chardonnay has had a bit of a rough ride and earned a love it or hate it reputation.
But, there is life beyond Chardonnay – wines that will still give you body, texture, and fullness, but with something a little extra. Don’t worry, I’m not asking you to abandon Chardonnay. Just… have a little trial separation.
Here are three varieties that I think you’ll love, with just enough difference for you not miss your glass of Chardy!
Albariño – I definitely have a thing for Albariño. It is often on our wine list and I love recommending it to people who come into the shop. And we are lucky that we can sample both the “real deal” stuff from Spain as well as our very own home-grown version which can be very different stylistically.
The birthplace of Albariño is Rías Baixas (don’t even bother trying to pronounce that – go with the wider region of Galicia instead – its much easier and fun to say) in north-east Spain. Here the grapes are often grown on trellises above head height to keep them dry in the ocean air. Basically, the grapes get a better view than you do.
Similar to a cool-climate Chardonnay, Albariño is fresh and zippy with citrus and stone fruit – but with a sea-salty kiss that I just love. It’s a little leaner and a little livelier than most Chardonnays but with enough texture and body to keep you happy.
Perfect Pairing: Patatas Bravas, garlic and chill prawns (both on the menu at our wine bar), or anything that once swam.
Try the Martin Codax Albariño or Alba Martin Albariño both from Spain or for something closer to home, try the Albariño Brothers Albariño.
Tempranillo Blanco
This grape is basically a mutant. Tempranillo aka Spain’s iconic red grape spontaneously sprouted a white version in 1988. A weird thing happened...and now we drink it.
Spanish whites are usually quite crisp and zesty but Tempranillo Blanco is surprisingly full. It’s got that creamy, rounded mouthfeel Chardonnay drinkers love, with flavours of pear, banana, and citrus.
Perfect Pairing: Warm Spanish olives, a Manchego cheeseboard, or anything tapas.
Try the Nivarius Tempranillo Blanc - it is a fantastic wee gem at a great price!
Chenin Blanc
Chenin is so versatile, It can be dry, off-dry, sparkling, or sweet — and it still hits the spot everytime. France’s Loire Valley is its spiritual home, but South Africa is doing absolutely delicious things with it too, as is New Zealand.
Chenin can be as rich and round as an oaked Chardonnay, but often has a touch more acidity and a slightly honeyed note. A little fresher, perkier but not too far off the flavours of a Chardonnay.
Perfect Pairing: We love it with our roasted mushroom dish finished with crème fraiche – the creaminess really sings with the wine. It’s a great wine to have with dinner as it goes with a wide range of dishes.
Try the Nola Chenin Blanc from Matakana!
So go on, try something a little different.
I’re not saying ditch your Chardonnay — just give it a little side-eye now and then. Trying new wines is basically self-care with a corkscrew. You might just discover a new favourite (or three).
And hey, Chardonnay will understand. Probably.