A popular choice
Chardonnay
The grape that rules the lovable wine word, Chardonnay is a fan favourite for a lot of wine lovers. Low maintenance, great adaptability to different climates, producers of this grape truly have a free run in shaping and styling their Chardonnay profiles from buttery and oaky to fruity.
In New Zealand, you'll find the most searched for Chardonnay's are from Gisborne, Hawke's Bay and Marlborough. Some of the very best Chardonnay's we've tasted have been from our very own backyard!
Explore our favourite Chardonnay food and wine match that will have you entertaining in style with good wine and good food in hand.
Food Match
Chardonnay and Roast Chicken with lemon, thyme and buttery mash
Chardonnay is one of the most versatile white wines, with styles ranging from crisp and citrusy to rich and creamy. New Zealand Chardonnay's, especially from Hawke's Bay and Gisborne often feature notes of stone fruit, vanilla and subtle oak, making them a dream match for roast chicken. The pairing brings together the wines buttery texture and the comforting flavours of a kiwi style roast with mash.
Why Chardy works with roasted chicken:
A perfect pairing
The richness of a roasted chicken, covered in butter and infused with lemon and thyme, pairs beautifully with Chardonnay's fuller body. The wines bright acidity balances the fat in the dish, while its creamy mouthfeel enhances the succulent chicken and buttery mash. If you're enjoying an oaked Chardonnay, the subtle spice from the barrel aging compliments the roasts golden, crispy skin.
Serving and enjoying:
For the ultimate experience, serve this dish with a well-chilled chardonnay from Church Road or Kumeu River, as the wines subtle oak and creamy texture enhances the richness of the fish, while its bright acidity keeps the meal fresh and balanced.
There's something deeply comforting about a roast chicken for dinner, especially when paired with a beautiful glass of Chardonnay. This combination is an easy yet elegant way to embrace winter dining, bringing warm and flavour to your table.
Top picks
Top 3 Chardonnay's to match:
Buttercream Chardonnay
A scent that is extremely welcoming and warming! Rich, creamy and buttery, this Buttercream Chardonnay is the jewel of all Californian Chardonnay's. Enjoy those true buttercream cake notes, a display of rich and creamy textures mixed with tropical fruits, vanilla touches and a kiss of sweetness. The finish you ask? A vanilla buttery delight!
Church Road McDonald Series Chardonnay
A Chardonnay this elegant deserves a round of applause with aromas of fresh citrus and florals on the nose. This beautiful Church Road McDonald Series Chardonnay shows a medium bodied and finely balanced with fresh acidity. Floral notes, fresh citrus and delicate oak makes this an irresistible Hawke's Bay Chardonnay.
Kumeu River Rays Road Chardonnay
Celebrate in style with the Kumeu River Rays Road Chardonnay that showcases the outmost creamy and oaky aromas that will have you excited in no time. A a mineral complexity that stays very true to the region, medium-bodied with a lush flavourful finish, this Chardonnay is one to sip or savour if you can resist.
