Barnard Griffin Chardonnay 2018

Say the words “I don’t like Chardonnay” and your sommelier will cringe. Somms know that while Chardonnay may be the world’s best-known grape, it is also misunderstood. Unless your Chardonnay is served with a black fly, give it a chance. Not liking Chardonnay means you simply haven’t tried enough.

In its homeland of Burgundy (France), Chardonnay is used to make fine whites like Chablis and Meursault. Further north, it is the dominant white grape used in Champagne. When winemaking culture spread over the last few centuries, Chardonnay found a home in almost every wine-growing region. By the end of the last century, Chardonnay was so ubiquitous in vineyards around the world that this noble grape, famous for producing the very finest of wines, also became synonymous with insipid mass market plonk. Isn’t it ironic?

The beauty of Chardonnay is that it can be crafted into an array of styles. Grown in cooler climates, it is crisp with notes of citrus. Warmer regions produce a richer wine with tropical fruit flavours. Winemaking magic gives it a signature buttery flavour. Millions of winemakers craft their Chardonnay grapes into wine every year, and every bottle tastes unique.

This classic but modern Chardonnay comes from one of Washington State’s pioneering winemakers, Rob Griffin. In the glass you will taste Columbia Valley’s cool climate—bright and refreshing with flavours of lemon and green apple. It finishes with just a touch of spice from the oak. Find it at the Bluebird Bar on Dundas Street West - $32.