Canadian wineries are embracing the trend for lighter chardonnay styles, focusing on invigorating citrus and apple flavors rather than the tropical and toasty expressions traditionally associated with California’s rich and buttery chardonnays. While many producers worldwide are opting for tart and acidic profiles, there are still some richer options that stand out. Among them are two flagship releases from British Columbia and Ontario, alongside an affordable Chilean label. Fort Berens Chardonnay Reserve 2023 offers a creamy texture with ripe fruit and oak-derived notes, Inniskillin Montague Vineyard Chardonnay 2022 combines citrus and peach flavors with a toasty finish, and Santa Rita 120 Reserva Especial Chardonnay 2023 provides a fruity profile with apple, pineapple, and melon notes.
What are some rewarding alternatives to American chardonnay?
