2009 Alta Maria Vineyards Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay
Half the wine for this white is aged in stainless steel, which focuses its tangerine-lime flavors.
Pairing: Roast Chicken with Tangerines
2010 Beringer Private Reserve Chardonnay
The winery's buttery, generously oaked top white is more vibrant than usual, thanks to a cool summer in 2010.
Pairing: Salmon Rillettes
2010 De Morgenzon DMZ Chardonnay
De Morgenzon makes one of South Africa's greatest Chenin Blancs, and some stellar bargains under its DMZ label. This oaky, lively Chardonnay is a top pick.
Pairing: Asparagus and Bok-Choy Frittata
2010 Foxglove Chardonnay
A secret to this tropical-inflected Chardonnay's lively, juicy flavors—and its low price—is no oak aging.
2009 Petaluma Piccadilly Valley Chardonnay
A ripely styled Chardonnay for the cool Adelaide Hills region, this white is loaded with citrus and nectarine.
2010 J.M. Boillot Montagny Premier Cru
Montagny is a subzone of the Côte Challonnaise region in Burgundy, a source of strong values—like this juicy, green apple-driven bottling.
Pairing: Buttery Crab Bread Pudding
2010 Noble Vines 446 Chardonnay
A full-bodied white such as a Chardonnay from California will be delightful with the crab. Try to find one that isn't too oaky—just full of the taste of ripe fruit like Noble Vines' tropical bottling.
Pairing: Crab Cakes with Horseradish Cream
2011 Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay
One of the most popular Chardonnays in America, KJ’s Vintner’s Reserve also happens to be remarkably good: rich without being fat, with ripe apricot and citrus notes.
2010 Talley Vineyards Rincon Vineyard Chardonnay
There’s a sneaky intensity to this masterful Chardonnay, which comes from a hillside vineyard in the Arroyo Grande Valley area.
Pairing: Chicken Dijon
