chardonnay

noun

char·​don·​nay ˌshär-də-ˈnā 

variants often Chardonnay

: a full-bodied white wine that is known for its complexity, depth of flavor, and capacity to age, that is one of the world's most popular wines, that is notably produced in Burgundy, California, and Australia, and that is used in the production of champagne

also : the grape itself

Examples of chardonnay in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Crafted from an original vineyard block from the winery's founding, composed of pinot noir and chardonnay the blend showcases bright cherry, peach, and orange blossom notes with honeycomb and macadamia flavors. — Katie Kelly Bell, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

Founder Miljenko Grgich was the winemaker who crafted the 1973 Chateau Montelena chardonnay that won the historic tasting. — Anna Lee Iijima, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026

Though all kinds of varietals thrive here, San Luis Obispo County is particularly famous for its chardonnays and pinot noirs, which thrive in the rocky, volcanic soil. — Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 24 June 2026

Avoid oaky Chardonnays and sweeter whites like Riesling or Moscato. — Martha Stewart, 25 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, a grape variety, probably from Chardonnay, village in the Mâconnais (region surrounding mâcon)

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for chardonnay

• montane