Many believe that the origins of Chardonnay are unknown. Some scholars suggest  that it originated in the Middle East, while others claim that these grapes are the result of the spontaneous hybridisation of an already domesticated grape (probably Pinot) and an Illyrian grape variety (from such areas as Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro and Albania).

The Burgundy region, and specifically the municipality of the same name, can, however, be pinpointed as the native land and of Chardonnay, and the place where it is officially grown.
Many consider it to be the single grape variety that produces the area’s best wines. It is like a brand name recognised across the world, and is used to produce monovarietals or combined with other grapes. As such, it is found in blends and also in grape mixes. Approximately 11,800 hectares of land is dedicated to growing Chardonnay grapes in Italy.