Which grape variety is not authorized for sherry production?

Chardonnay is not an authorized grape variety for sherry production. The primary grapes used for making sherry are Palomino, Pedro Ximénez, and Moscatel.

Palomino is the main grape used, particularly for producing Fino and Manzanilla sherries, due to its ability to thrive in the region's unique climate and soil conditions. Pedro Ximénez, on the other hand, is mainly used for producing sweet sherries that are rich and dense, thanks to grapes that are often sun-dried to concentrate their sugars. Moscatel is also permitted and is used to make aromatic and sweet styles of sherry.

Chardonnay, while a popular grape variety in many wine production areas around the world, does not have a place in the traditional production of sherry, which is strictly regulated by the Denominación de Origen (DO) Jerez-Xérès-Sherry. This regulation enforces the use of specific grape varieties, ensuring the continuity and authenticity of sherry as a unique wine style.