Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are two of the most popular white wines in the world and we all love their flavors. Despite being two such broad varieties, the differences between them are not well known. Do you want to know the difference between these two wines?

Chardonnay

It is a wine grape native to Burgundy, France. This grape is often grown alongside the region's other most popular variety: Pinot Noir. The world surface of this crop is 491,000 hectares and it costs between 14 and 20 per bottle. The regions where we can find premium and standard Chardonnay are Spain, Chile, Italy or Australia, while the most exclusive and expensive Chardonnay wines are usually produced in California, France or New Zealand.

Taste and Food pairings

Chardonnay wine aromas feature hints of apple, pineapple, cucumber and stone fruit. These are dry, full-bodied white wines that often have creamy, buttery, and nutty undertones from aging in (usually American) oak barrels and malolactic fermentation. If the Chardonnay is aged on lees, we can also find yogurt flavors and a lot of creaminess. Among the best Chardonnay pairings, we find that it goes well with chicken dishes, seafood pies, or quiche with mustard sauce.

Sauvignon

Sauvignon Blanc comes from the Bordeaux and Loire regions of France and is often grown with other local varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The total plantation area of ​​this variety reaches 300,000 hectares, and the price of one unit is between 9 and 13 euros. The regions that produce this great affordable wine are Chile, the South of France and Italy. The most exclusive and valuable Sauvignon Blanc wines are produced in Castilla León (DO Rueda) of New Zealand, the Loire Valley of France and the northern coast of California.

Taste and Food pairings

Sauvignon blanc wines have a flavor in which we can find notes of blackcurrant, cucumber, grapefruit or passion fruit. They are dry wines with less body and a refreshing aroma. Depending on where the wine comes from, there are subtle nuances to the flavor, from the salty notes of freshly cut grass, currants and jalapeños to even sweeter, fruitier shades of green like grapefruit or passion fruit. Mid-range and premium Sauvignon Blanc wines are typically aged in oak barrels in the cellars, giving them a Chardonnay-like creaminess. When it comes to pairing, they are full-bodied wines, so they usually pair well with goat cheese, fish tacos, Mediterranean-style meats with lemon, capers and olives, or chicken dishes. Due to their strength, they also pair well with Thai and Vietnamese cuisine.

Contrary to what some people think, there are many varieties of white wine. More and more people are choosing white wine over red to drink on its own or with a meal. So now you know... the best wine is the one you like. Enjoy your favorite wine and don't let anyone change your style!