National Chardonnay Day

Joyful group of friends toasting with glasses filled with golden Chardonnay, dressed in elegant attire, surrounded by lush vineyards on a sunny day.. — National chardonnay day illustration

Welcome to the fabulous world of National Chardonnay Day! Get ready to raise your glasses and celebrate this esteemed wine varietal with a day dedicated solely to its existence. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy a glass of vino every now and then, National Chardonnay Day offers the perfect opportunity to gather your loved ones, sip on some flavorful Chardonnay, and indulge in the pleasure of this exquisite wine.

When is Chardonnay Day?

It's national chardonnay day on the 22nd May.

The History of National Chardonnay Day

Every great national day has an internet history, and National Chardonnay Day is no exception. This delightful day first made its mark on the online world on May 22, 2015, when it garnered an impressive 1339 mentions. It was on this fateful day that people around the globe took to their keyboards to express their adoration for Chardonnay and share their experiences with this delectable drink.

But let's step away from the internet for a moment and delve into the history of Chardonnay itself. This beloved white wine has been enjoyed for centuries, with its origins dating back to the Burgundy wine region of France. Chardonnay grapes are known for their versatility, allowing winemakers to produce a wide range of styles, from crisp and unoaked to rich and buttery.

Celebrating National Chardonnay Day

Now that you know a bit more about the background of Chardonnay, let's jump into the fun part: celebrating National Chardonnay Day! There's no shortage of ways to commemorate this special occasion. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Host a Chardonnay tasting party with friends and family. Explore different regions and styles of Chardonnay, and let your taste buds be your guide.
Visit a local winery or vineyard that specializes in Chardonnay. Take a tour, learn about the winemaking process, and of course, sample some of their finest Chardonnay offerings.
Get creative in the kitchen and whip up some dishes that pair perfectly with Chardonnay. From seafood to creamy pastas, the possibilities are endless.

Did You Know?

Did you know that Chardonnay is the most popular white wine in the United States? It's no wonder National Chardonnay Day has become such a beloved celebration for wine enthusiasts across the country.

History behind the term 'Chardonnay'

1086

Norman Conquest Introduces White Wine Grapes

In the year 1086, following the Norman Conquest of England, the cultivation of grapevines began to thrive, bringing with it the introduction of various grape varietals. Among these was the ancestor of Chardonnay, a white wine grape known as "Heunisch." This grape had already been grown in Burgundy, France, before making its way to England.

1330

Heunisch is Renamed Chardonnet

By the year 1330, the name of the grape mutated from "Heunisch" to "Chardonnet" due to cultivation in the French region of Champagne. This name change played a crucial role in the evolution of Chardonnay, setting the stage for its future development and recognition as a distinct grape variety.

1680

Chardonnay Gains Prominence in Burgundy

In 1680, Chardonnay truly began to distinguish itself in the Burgundy region of France. Winemakers realized the grape's potential for producing exceptional white wines with rich flavors and subtle complexities. This marked a turning point for Chardonnay, establishing its reputation as a grape capable of creating highly regarded wines.

1930

Modern Clonal Selection and Planting Techniques

During the 1930s, advancements in clonal selection and planting techniques played a significant role in further enhancing the quality of Chardonnay wines. Growers began employing methods to select the best genetic variations of Chardonnay vines, resulting in improved vineyard productivity and flavor profile refinement.

1970

Chardonnay's Surge in Popularity

Chardonnay rapidly gained popularity in the 1970s due to a rising trend of rich, oaky, and buttery white wines. Winemakers in California led the charge in producing Chardonnay with these desirable characteristics, introducing it to a wider audience and cementing its status as a go-to white wine choice.

1990

Chardonnay's Versatility and Global Presence

As the 1990s began, Chardonnay's versatility became evident as various regions around the world started cultivating the grape. Different terroirs influenced the flavor profiles, allowing Chardonnay to showcase a wide range of styles, from crisp and mineral-driven to creamy and tropical. This global expansion further solidified Chardonnay's position as one of the most popular and widely recognized white wine varietals.