World of Wine

Oaked Chardonnay: The World of Rich, Textured White Wine

May 26, 2025

RIEDEL Fatto a Mano Cabernet Decanter next to two Fatto a Mano Black Tie glasses

Chardonnay is one of the world’s most expressive white wines—and when oak enters the picture, it transforms into something truly extraordinary. Rich, creamy, and full of texture, oaked Chardonnay captivates with layers of flavor and luxurious depth. Whether you’re sipping a glass of Meursault, exploring Montrachet, or discovering a bold New World expression, this style of wine offers unforgettable complexity. Let’s explore what makes oaked Chardonnay so special—and how the right glass enhances every golden pour.

Chardonnay and Oak: A Match Made in Barrique

Chardonnay is famously versatile, adapting beautifully to different winemaking styles and terroirs. But few combinations are as celebrated as Chardonnay aged in oak. Oak barrels not only impart subtle aromas of vanilla, spice, and toast—they also add texture, roundness, and weight. The result is a wine that feels expansive on the palate, with a layered mouthfeel and long, warming finish.

Unlike unoaked styles that emphasize freshness and minerality, oaked Chardonnay leans into richness and complexity. Think baked apple, roasted hazelnuts, lemon curd, and brioche—a profile that deepens with every swirl in the glass.

RIEDEL Fatto a Mano Black Tie glass next to RIEDEL Fatto a Mano Cabernet Decanter

Old World Icons:

Meursault and Montrachet

Two of the most revered expressions of oaked Chardonnay come from Burgundy: Meursault and Montrachet. In Meursault, the wines are known for their nutty, buttery richness and a mineral streak that reflects the limestone-rich soils. Extended oak aging here produces broad, textured wines with remarkable aging potential.

Montrachet, meanwhile, is often considered the pinnacle of Chardonnay. Grand Cru wines from this appellation are opulent and precise, showing both the power of oak and the elegance of perfectly balanced fruit. These wines are treasured for their depth, tension, and longevity—often commanding some of the highest prices in the world of white wine.

If you’re new to oaked Chardonnay, exploring these iconic regions offers a masterclass in how terroir and technique create timeless wines.

The New World Embrace of Oaked Wine

Oaked Chardonnay isn’t just a French phenomenon. Across the globe, winemakers from California to Australia have embraced this style with their own unique spin. In Napa and Sonoma, for example, you’ll find rich, full-bodied Chardonnays bursting with ripe tropical fruit, buttered popcorn, and sweet spice—thanks to generous use of new oak and malolactic fermentation.

Australia’s Margaret River and Adelaide Hills also produce stunning examples, balancing boldness with elegance. Cooler climate regions like Oregon and New Zealand, meanwhile, often opt for a more restrained style, with nuanced oak and lively acidity. No matter the region, oaked Chardonnay allows for immense creativity and expression.

Why People Love Oaked Chardonnay

There’s a reason why oaked Chardonnay continues to captivate wine lovers. Its richness and structure make it incredibly food-friendly—perfect with roasted chicken, creamy pastas, lobster, or mushroom risotto. The buttery texture and toasty notes echo the depth of a well-composed dish, creating harmony at the table.

But oaked Chardonnay is just as satisfying on its own. It’s a wine made for savoring: complex, contemplative, and luxurious without being showy. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or celebrating a quiet moment, it brings a sense of comfort and occasion.

Wine Glass Guide

Choosing the Best Oaked Wines

If you’re ready to explore the world of oaked Chardonnay, start with trusted regions and producers. For Old World elegance, look for Meursault, Montrachet, or Pouilly-Fuissé. In the New World, explore names like Kistler (California), Leeuwin Estate (Australia), or Kumeu River (New Zealand).

Seek out wines labeled “barrel fermented” or “aged in French oak” to ensure you’re getting that textured experience. Don’t be afraid to ask your wine merchant for recommendations based on style—from lightly oaked and crisp to bold and buttery. There’s an oaked Chardonnay out there for every palate.

The Perfect Glass for

Oaked Chardonnay

As with all fine wines, the right glass enhances every nuance of oaked Chardonnay. The RIEDEL Vinum Oaked Chardonnay/Montrachet is specially designed to highlight the balance between acidity and oak influence. Its broad bowl allows for proper aeration, unlocking aromas of toasted almond, ripe stone fruit, and spice. Meanwhile, the tapered rim directs the wine to the right parts of the palate, emphasizing roundness and depth.
Whether you're pouring a Montrachet or your favorite New World selection, this glass ensures the wine shows its best side. Because a wine this complex deserves nothing less.

Explore Our Chardonnay Glasses

Ready to bring out the best in your Chardonnay? Discover our expertly crafted glasses designed to elevate every sip. From the Fatto a Mano lines, each glass is shaped with purpose.

After all, the journey of wine doesn’t end at the bottle. It begins anew in the glass.

Explore our Oaked Chardonnay Wine Glass Guide