We’ve talked before about the difference between oaked and unoaked (or steel-aged) Chardonnays but it’s so important that we’re bringing it up again.
The Chardonnay is one of the six noble grapes, and therefore one of the most popular wines around the world. There are two kinds of Chardonnay, oaked and steel-aged.
A steel-aged Chardonnay is going to have very distinct characteristics: bright, tangy, and acidic, with fruit flavors that resemble those qualities like citrus fruits and apples, and a minerality that brings a crispness to the wine. The following wines are the five steel-aged Chardonnays you should drink this summer.
Rulo 2011 Sundance Vineyard Chardonnay
True to the style of a steel-aged wine, it’s mineral in taste with tart fruits like citrus and apple.
$20, 91 points
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Morgan 2015 Metallico Unoaked Chardonnay
A real bang for your buck. Bright and citrusy, full of surprising flavors like white peach, Asian pear, yuzu, and even grapefruit.
$22, 92 points
Eikendal 2015 Janina Unwooded Chardonnay
Easy to drink and in its perfect year. Acidic and flavorful, with notes of apple and honeydew.
$16, 89 points
Slightly cheating as 5% is aged in American Oak, but still counts. Refreshing and clean with toasted vanilla, lime, and apple flavors.
$11, 87 points
Higher in price and quality. Gorgeously crisp and dry with pineapple and peach flavors, as well as a steely minerality that will surprise and delight you.
$35, 94 points
