8 B.C. Chardonnays to Have On Chardonnay Day

The B.C. climate is just right for producing some of the finest chardonnays around. Since most of the grapes are grown in the sunny Okanagan Valley, we benefit from the fruit orchards near the winery vines that add subtle notes of apple and stone fruit to the finished wines. These chardonnays range from light-bodied to buttery-rich and oaky, depending on the winemakers’ processes. So, raise a glass to International Chardonnay Day on May 22 with any one of these eight B.C. beauties.

1. Jackson Triggs Reserve Chardonnay

The Jackson Triggs Reserve Chardonnay 2024 is very well priced and an excellent value in this easy-to-sip, slightly oaky wine. Visit the wine shop and tasting room in Oliver to get a sense of the complete range of their wines. I love this chard with a simple pasta in a light cream sauce with spring vegetables like asparagus and peas.

 

2. Chronos Winemaker’s Select Chardonnay

Chronos Winemaker’s Select Chardonnay 2022 is from our friends at Time Wines in Penticton and has notes of honey and orchard fruit. Aged in new French oak barrels, the result is balanced and creamy with an even finish. Speaking of creamy, this wine plays beautifully with a platter of B.C. brie and other spreadable cheeses. 

 

3. Township 7 Reserve Chardonnay

 The Township 7 2019 Reserve Chardonnay is full-bodied and creamy with notes of pineapple, apricot and Indonesian vanilla. This chardonnay is a library wine and will be released in limited quantities for International Chardonnay Day on May 22. I love this wine paired with any type of shellfish, but especially prawns. And speaking of, it’s spot prawn season in B.C. so pair those with this chardonnay while you can. 

 

 4. CedarCreek Estate Chardonnay

The CedarCreek Estate Chardonnay  is such a beauty, certified organic and with just a touch of oak. Notes of white peach, lemon zest and minerality result in a long finish. This wine is delicious paired with your next roast chicken dinner. 

 

5. Mission Hill Reserve Chardonnay

Mission Hill’s Reserve Chardonnay  is a classic from their line-up of wine fridge stars. If you’re ever in doubt about what wine to bring to a friend’s, bring this. Pair this wine at a weekend lunch with a Cobb salad or creamy mushroom risotto. 

 

6. Laughing Stock Chardonnay

The Laughing Stock Chardonnay is an elegant wine with its notes of crème brûlée, lemon curd, hazelnut and has a creamy finish. Pair this wine with any white fish like sole, halibut or cod, and serve with simple side dishes. 

 

7. Haywire Chardonnay

The 2021 Haywire Chardonnay from Okanagan Crush Pad in Summerland has a rich mineral expression and has notes of stone fruit. It’s fabulous served with shellfish and fresh oysters in particular. 

 

8. Blasted Church’s Unorthodox Chardonnay

Blasted Church’s 2023 Unorthodox Chardonnay will make a chardonnay lover out of anyone who doesn’t love it already. Think notes of spicy muscat, citrus and stone fruit. This wine is delightful with fresh steamed crab dipped in butter.