Chardonnay is one of the most popular white wines worldwide. And NA versions of this classic grape variety have also risen in popularity over recent years. Non-alcoholic Chardonnay is now, in fact, one of the fastest growing sectors in the no-booze market.
So let’s explore some of the options if your after that distinctive Chardonnay drinking experience, but want to keep a lid on your alcohol intake.
1. Luminara Chardonnay
Luminara is a standout brand within Trinchero Family Estates, a wine company that has built a reputation over more than 50 years. Notably, it is the first Napa Valley wine brand to offer an alcohol-removed product. In the glass, Luminara Chardonnay has a delicate, pale straw-yellow hue that immediately catches the eye. Right from the first sip, the wine presents crisp, refreshing green apple notes, complemented by a touch of tropical fruit, such as pineapple or mango. A subtle underpinning of oak balances these fruity flavours beautifully. This adds a layer of richness without overwhelming the freshness of the fruit. It would make a great accompaniment to a variety of light dishes, such as seafood.
2. St. Regis Chardonnay
On the nose of this non-alcoholic Chardonnay, you’re greeted by delicate notes of green apple, pear, and a hint of citrus – all very much in the fruit-forward territory, as you would expect from a fresh Chardonnay. On the palate, ity delivers a well-balanced and straightforward flavour profile. The fruit-forward character is front and centre, with crisp green apple and pear taking the lead, along with a touch of lemon zest adding an extra zing. The acidity is refreshing and crisp, making this a highly drinkable wine. It would pair well with grilled chicken salads, grilled shrimp or seared scallops.
3. Hardys Zero Chardonnay
On the nose, this non-alcoholic Chardonnay delivers many of the characteristic aromas one would expect. Dominant notes of green apple, ripe pear, and white peach provide a fruit-forward introduction. These fruity scents are complemented by hints of citrus zest and a delicate layer of vanilla. On the first sip you get fruit. And quite a lot of it. There’s citrus and orchard fruit flavours, like apple and pear. You can tell Hardys know how to get flavour from their grapes. There’s an emerging soft side as well, one of a kind of melon flavour that adds a bit of sweetness. It could make a fine companion to a couscous salad or a vegetable frittata.
4. Opia Sparkling Chardonnay
For those who enjoy the effervescence of sparkling wines, Opia Sparkling Chardonnay is an excellent choice. It leans heavily into its fruit-driven nature when it arrives on the palate. The initial sip brings forward crisp green apple, ripe pear and zesty lemon notes. Combined with the effervescence, it’s a wake-up call for the old tastebuds. As the flavours unfold, a bit of minerality emerges, as well as a hint of honey (although without making it overly sweet). It’s very easy to drink. It’s also organic, vegan-friendly and sulphite-free.
5. Pierre Zéro Chardonnay
Pierre Zéro Chardonnay delivers a crisp and fruit-driven palate. The initial sip brings forward fresh green apple, juicy pear, and hints of white peach, all complemented by a vibrant citrus backbone. The acidity is well-balanced, giving the wine a clean, refreshing character without becoming overly sharp. As the wine evolves on the palate, there are delicate notes of vanilla and almond, preventing the wine from feeling one-dimensional. This wine pairs well with a variety of dishes, from creamy pasta and risotto to seafood and poultry.
Non-alcoholic Chardonnay is well worth a shot
Non-alcoholic Chardonnays are increasingly adept at offering the same crisp, fruity flavours and balanced acidity as their alcoholic counterparts. And from big global players to smaller boutique wineries, lots of producers are now catering to the mindful drinker when it comes to bringing NA Chardonnays onto the market. So whether you’re enjoying them on their own or pairing them with food, these wines prove that you don’t need alcohol to enjoy a sophisticated, well-crafted drink.
Image credit: Erfan Parhizi