The Chardonnay grape originated in the prestigious wine region of Burgundy and found its way into vineyards across the United States, earning in 2010 its dedicated celebration known as Chardonnay Day. The annual celebration is on the Thursday before Memorial Day, also considered International Chardonnay Day.
It is the primary grape for producing Chablis, white Burgundy, and sparkling wines. The first commercial planting of Chardonnay in the United States is traced back to 1912 when Wente Vineyard in Livermore Valley, California, introduced it to American soil.
Chardonnay stands out among white wine grapes due to its adaptability to diverse climates and soil types. In cooler climates, Chardonnay grapes produce wines with clean, crisp profiles and high acidity, offering excellent aging potential. On the other hand, warmer climates tend to yield Chardonnay wines with tropical fruit flavors.
The grape’s versatility extends to its food pairing. Crisp and unoaked Chardonnays pair well with seafood and salads, while fuller-bodied and oak-aged Chardonnays can stand up to richer dishes like roasted poultry and pasta.
Here are some noteworthy Chardonnay numbers for the United States:
- The United States is the second-largest producer of Chardonnay, following France, with 106,000 acres dedicated to its cultivation. California and Washington are the leading states in Chardonnay production. (OIV, 2017)
- California boasts an impressive 87,391 acres of Chardonnay grapes. The three counties with the highest acreage of Chardonnay cultivation are Monterey, Sonoma, and San Joaquin County. (California Grape Acreage Report, 2022)
- In Washington State, Chardonnay plantings cover approximately 7,403 acres, accounting for about 13% of the state’s 58,000 vineyard acres. (Washington State Wine Commission)
- In 2022, Washington State’s Chardonnay grape production was almost 39,450 tons, a 54% increase from 2021. (Washington Grape Production Report, 2022)
- Oregon’s Willamette Valley is renowned for its cool-climate Chardonnay. The state has 2,724 acres of Chardonnay grapes, an increase from 2,610 acres the year before. (2021 Oregon Vineyard and Winery Report)
- Texas produces 63 acres of Chardonnay grapes, a decrease from the 110 acres reported the year before. (USDA, 2020)
- Chardonnay grapes are also cultivated in New York, particularly the Finger Lakes and Long Island regions, totaling 856 acres. (New York Wine and Grape Foundation, 2023)
- Other states embracing Chardonnay cultivation include Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina, showcasing the widespread appreciation for this versatile grape.
As you celebrate Chardonnay’s contribution today, remember these numbers or share them with your customers, colleagues, or friends.
