What’s better than sipping a glass of Chardonnay on a warm evening (or day if you’re so inclined)?  Not much if you ask us!  So here are come lovely Chards, which are all available for $20 or less, that you can enjoy in the sun at whatever hour suites you. Cheers! 

Cambria “Beachbreak” 2015 Chardonnay

Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay

Region: Santa Maria Valley, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

One is drawn in by aromas of peaches, pears, buttered popcorn, and caramel on the nose. A sip delivers flavors of peach, lemon, and pear that flow into highlights of buttery toast and roast almonds. There a nice balance of creamy, buttery elements with lively fruity character, making this a Chardonnay that could please a crowd.

Rating: 90

La Crema 2016 Monterey Chardonnay

Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay

Region: Monterey County, Ca

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

On the nose, aromas of tropical and citrus fruits combine with creamy, buttery suggestions. There’s lots of nice fruit on the palate as pineapple, lemon, and mango play together with buttery oak and creamy vanilla. Rich and round, it’s just what you’d expect from La Crema.

Rating: 90

Folie A Deux 2016 Chardonnay

Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay

Region: Sonoma County, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

Notes of pineapples, peaches, crème brûlée, and baking spice rise up from a glass. There’s a lovely balance of flavors on the palate as tropical fruit and stone fruit play with expressions of creamy vanilla, brown spice, and toasty oak. Opulent but with a good backbone of acidity, making it a fine match for your favorite white fish in a creamy sauce.

Rating: 90

Noble Vines 2015 “446” Chardonnay

Grape(s): Chardonnay

Region: Monterey County, Ca

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

Aromatics of pineapples, pears, and apples rise up from a glass alongside whispers of toasty coconut and buttery oak. A sip delivers flavors of pear, peach, and apple that move into nuances of coconut cream, clove, and butter. A welcoming acidity and balanced mouth-feel make this a solid buy for under $15.

Rating: 89