Wine Comparison

Sauvignon Blanc vs Chardonnay

The world's two most popular white grapes. Sauvignon Blanc is crisp and herbal; Chardonnay ranges from lean and mineral to rich and buttery.

Sauvignon Blanc
Comparison
Chardonnay
Light-Medium
Body
Medium-Full
$10-$100+ (top Sancerre commands premiums)
Price Range
$10-$500+ (white Burgundy is expensive)

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is known for its distinctive aromatics—grassy, herbal, and citrusy. It's refreshing and food-friendly, excelling in Loire Valley (Sancerre) and New Zealand (Marlborough). Always unoaked.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is the world's most planted white grape and incredibly versatile. It can be made in lean, mineral styles (Chablis) or rich, buttery styles (California). Winemaker decisions heavily influence the final wine.

Taste Comparison

Sauvignon Blanc Tasting Notes

GrapefruitGrassGreen appleJalapeñoGooseberryHigh acidity

Chardonnay Tasting Notes

AppleLemonButterVanillaToastVaries by style

Food Pairing Comparison

Sauvignon Blanc pairs with:

  • ✦Goat cheese
  • ✦Oysters
  • ✦Salads
  • ✦Asparagus
  • ✦Sushi
  • ✦Thai food

Chardonnay pairs with:

  • ✦Lobster
  • ✦Roasted chicken
  • ✦Creamy pasta
  • ✦Rich fish dishes

When to Choose Each Wine

Choose Sauvignon Blanc when...

  • You want crisp, refreshing wine
  • Pairing with salads or goat cheese
  • Hot weather
  • You prefer unoaked wines

Choose Chardonnay when...

  • You want a richer white
  • Pairing with lobster or cream sauces
  • You like oak influence
  • Special occasions

The Verdict

These represent opposite ends of the white wine spectrum. Sauvignon Blanc for freshness and zing; Chardonnay for richness and complexity. Many wine lovers enjoy both depending on the occasion.

Shop Sauvignon Blanc

Browse offers featuring Sauvignon Blanc

Shop Chardonnay

Browse offers featuring Chardonnay

More Wine Comparisons

Cabernet Sauvignon vs Merlot

Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are the two noble grapes of Bordeaux, often blended together. Cabernet is bolder with firmer tannins; Merlot is softer and more approachable.

Pinot Noir vs Pinot Grigio

Despite similar names, Pinot Noir (red) and Pinot Grigio (white) are completely different wines. Pinot Noir is elegant and complex; Pinot Grigio is light and refreshing.

Champagne vs Prosecco

Both are sparkling wines, but Champagne is complex and prestigious (from France); Prosecco is fresh and affordable (from Italy). Different methods create different styles.

Try Both and Decide for Yourself

Discover premium wines with our guaranteed upgrade system. Pay entry price, receive wines worth the same or more.

Browse Today's Offers