Chardonnay vs. the World

Posted by Keith Wallace

Welcome to After Wine School, the podcast that demystifies wine and makes it approachable for everyone. Hosted by Keith Wallace, founder of the Wine School of Philadelphia, and Alana Zerbe, its Director of Education, this isn’t about stuffy lectures or confusing jargon. It’s about enjoying wine the way it’s meant to be—accessible, fun, and a little indulgent.

In this episode, we’re diving into a juicy debate: Chardonnay vs. the World. Love it or hate it, Chardonnay has been a mainstay in the wine world for decades, and we’re here to uncork its full story.

Just imagine I’m still wearing a suit. My head is this huge… it’s the same size, but I’m like a weeble. I can barely hold my head up. I have to carry it around on its own head cot. And yeah, I actually had this beard and was in diapers until I was 10.

A Favorite “Keith Quote” From the Podcast

Listen to the episode here: https://wineschool.podbean.com/e/s1e3-chardonnay-vs-the-haters/

The Great Chardonnay Divide

Keith kicks things off with a nostalgic look at Chardonnay’s heyday. Growing up in the ’70s and ’80s, Chardonnay was the wine everyone agreed on—specifically, the rich, buttery styles from California and the refined elegance of white Burgundy.

But then, the tides shifted. By the late ’90s, the “Anything But Chardonnay” (ABC) movement emerged, turning this beloved grape into a wine snob’s punchline. “It’s wild to think about,” Keith says. “One moment, everyone loves it. The next, it’s like the Merlot scene from Sideways. Chardonnay became uncool overnight.”

A Winemaker’s Love Affair

Despite the backlash, Keith has an enduring love for Chardonnay. Why? “It’s the tofu of the wine world,” he says. “A blank slate that shows off a winemaker’s talent. You can craft it into anything—bright and zesty or creamy and indulgent.”

Alana, on the other hand, admits she came into wine when Chardonnay wasn’t trendy. “It took some convincing,” she laughs. “But I’ve learned to appreciate the artistry, especially with well-made white Burgundies.”

Tasting Time: Southern Burgundy in a Glass

For this episode’s tasting, Keith and Alana explore a bottle from Southern Burgundy: Domaine Duran Puy Venzel from the Macon. The wine’s golden hue hints at its complexity. On the nose, they pick up orchard fruit, apple blossoms, and a touch of allspice. The palate? Bright acidity, creamy texture, and a balance of ripe apples and subtle minerality.

“It’s like an apple pie, but elegant,” Keith muses. “Not the baked brie and caramel of California Chardonnay, but something refined and timeless.”

Alana, ever the skeptic, finds herself won over by the wine’s delicate balance. “I’ll admit, this is stunning,” she says. “Maybe I won’t love Chardonnay the way you do, Keith, but this glass? I’m here for it.”

Final Thoughts

Chardonnay’s story is a reminder that wine trends come and go, but a well-crafted bottle will always stand the test of time. Whether you’re sipping a bold California Chardonnay or a crisp white Burgundy, there’s room to embrace this versatile grape—without judgment.

Sign Up & Save on All Classes!

Join our newsletter today and unlock exclusive offers and wine education insights straight to your inbox!

Item added to cart.
0 items - $0.00