Back in June, I told you about some delicious white wines for summertime quaffing. I've had the opportunity since then to taste a number of excellent whites. Best of all, each costs $20 or less. Remember to serve them all well-chilled.
CHARDONNAY: There's a place for bigger, richer chardonnays, but my picks for summer and the lighter foods I'm eating are the chardonnays that are lean and zingy, with plenty of fruit, firm acidity and not too much oak or alcohol.
One example is the 2006 Estancia Pinnacles Ranches Chardonnay ($12), a refreshing wine brimming with apples and pears. The 2007 Taz Chardonnay ($20) from Santa Barbara County is racy and lemony, with green apple flavors and plenty of zip.
Costco shoppers should pick up the 2007 Cameron Hughes "Lot 68'' Chardonnay ($13), a wine from Western Australia's Margaret River appellation with lots of bright apple fruit and a hint of creaminess. (The wine is also available online at www.chwine.com.)
Contact Laurie Daniel at ladaniel@earthlink.net.
