Chardonnay Also known as:  Feinburgunder, Pinot Chardonnay, Morillon, Beaunois, Weißer Clevner. The Chardonnay grape is one of the most popular wine grapes in the world. Even in Germany it is gaining in popularity. It is an ancient grape that originated in the Middle East and was eventually brought into France. In 1991, the cultivation of Chardonnay grapes was officially permitted in Germany. Today, it covers 2,686 acres (1,087 hectares) or 1.1% of Germany's wine regions - mainly in the Baden, Pfalz, and Rheinhessen regions. Chardonnay wines are dry and acidic. A wide range of aromas are typical - melons, exotic fruits, gooseberries, and underripe apples. Young Chardonnay wines go well with seafood. Mature wines pair well with roasts and hearty cheese. © coica - Fotolia.com