Chardonnay is one of the most well known and well-loved white wine varietals on the market. With a long and distinguished following, Chardonnay enjoys a very versatile image, with vintners offering a broad range of styles and structures. From rich, buttery Chardonnays that boast power and presence to the unoaked fruit-forward Chardonnays that allow the varietal character and expression to be in the spotlight, this white wine is capable of accomodating most palates and just as many food pairing combinations.
1. Huge Bear Chardonnay 2007 (CA) $40
The 2007 Huge Bear Chardonnay brings power and rich textured complexity to the table. You'll find the delicious aromas of ripe apple and juicy pear on the nose wrapped in warm butter. These savory scents are echoed on the palate in addition to a squeeze of citrus and an edge of minerality. This particular wine offers a full-bodied, long finishing Chardonnay experience, that will pair up nicely with the likes of seafood in a buttery sauce, specifically grilled salmon, halibut or lobster.
2. Shafer Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay 2007 (CA) $48
Shafer Vineyards
The Shafer Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay turns it up a notch, starting with an engaging floral nose and a brilliant balance of acidity that carries a bright array of stone fruit, apple, melon and citrus on the palate. This is a full-bodied, non-malolactic Chardonnay that oozes elegance, rich palate appeal and an exquisite finish. Perfect for pairing with a variety of cream-based dishes or favorite seafood combinations.
3. Chateau St. Jean Sonoma County Reserve Chardonnay 2005 (CA) $23
Chateau St. Jean
Chateau St. Jean is known for producing some elegant Chardonnays year in and year out. The 2005 vintage is no exception, expect plenty of tropical fruit, lemon, tangerine and butterscotch. Give it a go with fresh baked clams or grilled salmon with butter-lemon sauce.
4. Chalone Estate Chardonnay 2007 (CA) $20
Chalone Estate
A long time favorite among Chardonnay lovers, the 2007 Chalone Estate Chardonnay ups the ante with vibrant fruit, ample minerality and an ever-lasting finish. On the palate you'll find pear, apple, stone fruit and light influences of tropical pineapple all set amidst a fine backdrop of honey and spice.
5. Clos LaChance Glittering-Throated Emerald Chardonnay 2008 (CA) $15
Clos LaChance
The 2008 Clos LaChance unoaked, non-malolactic Chardonnay offers up pure fruit, crisp character and a delightful finish. On the palate you'll find an assortment of tropical fruit, citrus and peach. This is a very zesty wine with plenty of food marriage options to choose from! Give it a go with grilled garlic shrimp or pineapple, mango or star fruit salad.
6. Borghese Chardonnay 2007 (NY) $16
Borghese
This medium-bodied Long Island Chardonnay comes with surprising acidity and makes for a gracious food pairing partner. On the palate you'll find plenty of apple and citrus, in a subtle butter-based presentation. GIve it a go with roasted poultry topped with a cream sauce or alfredo pasta.
7. Yalumba Y Series Chardonnay 2008 (AUS) $9
Yalumba
This is a good value Chard from Australia. Enjoy the tropical flavors and refreshing acidity in this unoaked Chardonnay that will pair well with the likes of a Caesar salad all the way to risotto or polenta.
8. Xavier Flouret Marely Chablis (FR) $23
Xavier Flouret
The Xavier Flouret Chablis from the famed French Chablis region displays lovely floral nuances on the nose and subtle pear and apple flavors on the palate. Expect good minerality and a good finish on this wine. Fantastic with goat cheese and brie.
9. Clos du Bois Calcaire Vineyard Chardonnay 2006 (CA) $20
Clos du Bois
This Chardonnay from Clos du Bois is a blend of grapes that all hail from the Russian River Valley and packs a punch with lively citrus flavors, Granny Smith apple and hints of pineapple and melon. Enjoy the acidity of this wine by pairing with a wide variety of your favorite foods, consider seafood, pork and poultry for starters.
10. Luigi Bosca Finca la Linda Chardonnay 2007 (AR) $16
Luigi Bosca
This unoaked Chardonnay from Argentina puts forth good fruit - mainly apple, pear, apricot and a bit of lemon zest along with crisp acidity. A great option for guacamole!
