Wine-Searcher: World's Best Chardonnays of 2024

When it comes to the world's best Chardonnays, barring Champagne, there's generally one little part of the world the mind automatically drifts to.

Burgundy: The Birthplace of Chardonnay

The grape's birthplace – the region that holds its origin story – is Burgundy. Revered, hallowed strips like the Côte de Beaune are responsible for producing some of the most expensive white wines in the world. Small, old, and jewel-like with plots fiercely guarded and subject to some of the wine world's trickiest inheritance laws, Burgundy continues to set the global benchmark for great Chardonnay.

However, that crown might be starting to slip as one region is increasingly closing in on Burgundy's limestone flanks. Sunny California, and more specifically – Sonoma – although Napa makes a strong appearance.

Often considered Napa's slightly more rural, less polished cousin, Sonoma is now producing some of the best Chardonnays in the world, three of which waltz among Burgundy in 2024's top 10.

The final line-up consists of six Burgundies and four Californians, three of which are from Sonoma.

How the World's Best Chardonnays Are Ranked by Wine-Searcher

Before diving into the list, it's worth noting how each Chardonnay makes the cut. It comes down to critic scores, which can appear misleadingly close at first glance. However, each critic is weighted differently depending on their reputation and general influence. The number of reviews also plays a role, as a high score from fewer critics can count for less than a slightly lower score from many.

2024's Top 10 Chardonnays

1. Coche-Dury Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru (Burgundy): Coche-Dury, a revered name in Burgundy, produces its Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru in the historic appellation of the same name. Founded in 1973, the estate has become synonymous with exceptional Chardonnay. This wine leads the rankings with an aggregate score of 97 points. Prices are in a league of their own: from USD 2,361 in 2015, it has soared to a dizzying USD 6,131 today.
2. Leroy Domaine d'Auvenay Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru (Burgundy)
   Domaine d'Auvenay, part of the prestigious Leroy empire, follows closely with an aggregated score of 98 points. This Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru is one of the most sought-after wines globally. Back in 2015, it cost USD 1,692; today, it has skyrocketed to USD 23,435.
3. Aubert Wines Lauren Vineyard Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast, California)
   The first Californian entry, Aubert's Lauren Vineyard Chardonnay, boasts an aggregate score of 96 points. Aubert, founded in 1999, has cemented itself as one of California's cult producers. Unlike its Burgundian counterparts, prices remain accessible: from USD 170 in 2015 to USD 235 today.
4. Coche-Dury Les Perrieres (Burgundy)
   Another stunning entry from Coche-Dury, this wine hails from the Perrieres Premier Cru vineyard in Meursault. Known for its honeyed mineral notes, it achieves 96 points. Prices reflect its prestige: USD 3,642, nearly double what it was a decade ago.
5. Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Montrachet Grand Cru (Burgundy)
   DRC, Burgundy's most iconic producer, places fifth with an aggregate score of 96 points. While its wines have always commanded high prices, the Montrachet Grand Cru has risen from USD 4,433 in 2015 to USD 10,894 today.
6. Aubert Wines CIX Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast, California)
   Aubert's second entry on the list, the CIX Chardonnay is celebrated for its Burgundian stylistic nods. With a 96-point score, it remains reasonably priced at USD 206, up from USD 155 in 2015.
7. Kongsgaard The Judge Chardonnay (Napa Valley, California)
   A cult favorite, Kongsgaard's The Judge Chardonnay has achieved legendary status. Limited production and meticulous care contribute to its 96-point score. Prices have climbed from USD 255 in 2015 to USD 832 today.
8. Peter Michael Point Rouge Chardonnay (Sonoma, California)
   Founded by Peter Michael in 1982, the Point Rouge Chardonnay earns its place with a 96-point score. Prices have risen from USD 292 in 2015 to USD 464 today.
9. Domaine Leflaive Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru (Burgundy)
   Domaine Leflaive remains a cornerstone of Puligny-Montrachet. Their Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru achieves a 96-point score and a price point of USD 1,776, up from USD 528 in 2015.
10. Leroy Domaine d'Auvenay Criots-Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru (Burgundy)
    Leroy's second entry closes the list with a remarkable score of 97 points. Prices have soared from USD 1,763 in 2015 to USD 21,520 today.

The Rise of California's Chardonnay

While Burgundy continues to dominate the upper echelons of Chardonnay, California's showing is impossible to ignore. Sonoma, in particular, is producing world-class wines at prices that remain relatively accessible. With three entries in the top 10 and two wines priced under USD 300, the region is proving to be a formidable rival to Burgundy's limestone legacy.

As Burgundy's prices soar into the stratosphere, the soft, honeyed calls of Californian Chardonnay are becoming harder to resist for wine lovers and collectors alike.

Source: Wine-Searcher