THE FALL (AND RISE) OF CHARDONNAY

Our fixation with the ‘80s has now officially lasted longer than the decade itself. Yes, the ‘80s have a lot to answer for, but it also produced some amazing things (shoulder pads, anyone?).

The number of ‘80s revival movies or reboots released recently is proof enough that all things ‘80s need a little ‘tweak’ to fit in with today’s modern society. This also happens to apply to chardonnay!

If you are old enough to remember the chardonnay of the ‘80s, then you know what I’m talking about. Back then, chardonnay wine production was seriously big business. Big business meant bigger profit margins, which meant less care and attention … and the result?

Well, many chardonnays of the ’80s were definitely not the refined wines they once were. They were heavily oaked, creamy and almost too sweet. Chardonnay became wine for people who don’t really like wine.

As with anything which becomes hugely popular, there was a sudden and harsh backlash. People starting associating chardonnay with a low class, ignorant sort of wine drinking. Despite the vicious campaign against chardonnay, the grape still remained popular and kept a devoted fan-base, but the damage was done. Until now!

Winemakers have been working diligently on changing the perception people have about this wine, and they’ve pulled back on that ‘80s excess to deliver a more restrained and elegant chardonnay.

Personally, for someone who didn’t drink chardonnay for a number of years, I will be giving this variety the Number 1 spot on my drinks’ list this summer!