Outside of Champagne, the term Pinot Noir Chardonnay is the name now used to describe a sparkling wine. With the European Union protecting the rights of wine producing regions, including the region in France known as, Champagne, (and rightly so), sparkling wine is also commonly called a Pinot Chardonnay, based on the fact that a sparkling wine is produced from these two grape varieties.

Don’t be fooled, the quality, texture and taste of a Pinot Chardonnay can be just as alluring and exciting as any Champagne. The name is the only thing that has changed, Pinot Chardonnays are still produced using the same techniques as Champagne
Big name distrbutors Moet and Chandon even list a few hidden Pinot Chardonnay gems in the inventory lists.$$$   A couple of these hidden gems come from Yarra Valley in Australia, a popular wine growing region.

New Zealand has also carved a reputation for producing some great ‘Sparklers’ with many originating from the North Island.

Many attempts over the years to combine various grape varieties have resulted in some fantastic successes and some tragic failures.  The most common types of grapes used in experimentation are Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz.  You don’t see a Sav Blanc Chardonnay around, do you? there is good reason for that.  But the mix of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with the sparkling fermentation process has been a tremendous success.

The Pinot Chardonnay series has proven to be very popular for social events like picnics, BBQ’s and wine bars, which is why they are commonly distributed in 200ml and 375ml sizes.  Although it is a sparkling variety, modern technology has allowed it to be as versatile as any of the still wines in packaging and delivery.

Probably the most exciting point of Pinot Chardonnays is because they are called Pinot Chardonnays and not Champagne they are nowhere near the same price...you win.

Set up a blind tasting of your own one day and see if you and your friends can pick the difference.

Follow the link for more information on Pinot Noir Chardonnay.

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