What wine is typically produced in the region of Chablis?

Chablis is a prestigious wine-growing region located in the northern part of Burgundy, France, renowned for producing white wines exclusively from the Chardonnay grape. The terroir of Chablis, characterized by its unique Kimmeridgian soil, is particularly suited to this grape, allowing for the development of distinct characteristics such as minerality, brightness, and crisp acidity.

The cool climate in Chablis contributes to the preservation of acidity in the wines, resulting in a style that often features flavors of green apple, crisp pear, and flint or slate-like minerality. These qualities make Chablis wines highly regarded and sought after on the global wine market.

In contrast, the other grape varieties mentioned—Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc—are either suited to different regions or produce different styles of wine. Merlot is primarily associated with Bordeaux, Pinot Noir is the main grape of red Burgundy and other regions, and Sauvignon Blanc is known for regions such as Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. Thus, Chardonnay is the correct answer as the hallmark varietal of Chablis.