“Nah-nah-nah-nah. Hey, hey, hey. Chardonnay!” If Cabernet Sauvignon is the “King of the Red Wines”, then Chardonnay is the “Queen of the White Wines!” Marilyn Monroe and Chardonnay are the two most popular blondes in the the world. Both have the reputation of being saucy, popular, misunderstood, and of course, a little dramatic.”If you’re gonna be two-faced at least make one of them pretty.” (Marilyn Monroe)

Chardonnay grapes are green-skinned grapes grown all over the world. They are known as the neutral grape because they are easily influenced by their terroir. Like blondes, grapes that is, they can be fickle, fussy, and demanding but well worth it. “I’m selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can’t handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don’t deserve me at my best.” (Marilyn Monroe)

Since Chardonnay grapes are so heavily influenced by the terroir and the wine makers individual techniques, it heavily influences their outcome. It is hard to say all Chardonnays have the same qualities. Each Chardonnay wine label has its own unique taste. Wines fermented in oak barrels often have that “smokiness” quality with hints of vanilla and butter. “I am not interested in money. I just want to be wonderful.” (Marilyn Monroe) It pairs well with seafood, pork, salads, and book clubs.