Best Chardonnay Wines for International Chardonnay Day

May 23 is International Chardonnay Day, and I couldn’t let it pass without celebrating one of the world’s most versatile (and misunderstood!) grapes. Whether you prefer bright, unoaked styles with citrusy zip or rich, buttery wines that practically melt in your mouth, Chardonnay offers something for every kind of wine lover. In this post, I’m sharing some of my favorite bottles from around the world — complete with tasting notes and food pairings to match.

To help you sip in style, I’ve rounded up standout wines from California, France, Australia, and beyond — all between $15–$60. Whether you’re planning a tasting night or just looking for a new bottle to enjoy, there’s a pour on this list for you.

🍇 Best Chardonnay Wines from California to Celebrate International Chardonnay Day

• St. Francis Wild Oak Chardonnay (~$38)
  Citrus, vanilla, lemon curd, ripe melon, toasted oak, crisp acidity
  Pair it with: Grilled chicken, crab cakes, creamy pastas
• Trefethen Katie’s Acre Chardonnay (~$60)
  Tropical nectar, crème brûlée, tangerine, toasted brioche, lemon curd
  Pair it with: Herbed chicken, seared scallops, soft cheeses
• Frank Family Vineyard Chardonnay Carneros (~$40)
  Lemon, guava, vanilla, caramel apple, nutmeg, crème brûlée, toasted oak
  Pair it with: Lobster tail, truffle mac & cheese, roasted squash
• Sojourn Chardonnay Durell Vineyard (~$48)
  Apple, citrus, layered minerality, vibrant acidity, long finish
  Pair it with: Seared scallops, lemon risotto, roast chicken

🇫🇷 Top Chardonnay Wines from France (Chablis & Burgundy)

• Louis Jadot Pouilly-Fuissé (~$28)
  Red apple, honey, white flowers, citrus, toasted nuts, subtle oak
  Pair it with: Roasted salmon, shellfish, creamy cheeses
• William Fèvre Chablis (~$39)
  Citrus, white fruit, floral notes, fresh minerality, supple texture
  Pair it with: Oysters, grilled fish, sushi, light seafood dishes

🇦🇺 Australian Chardonnays

• Vasse Felix Filius Chardonnay (Margaret River) (~$20)
  Citrus blossom, white nectarine, preserved lemon, jasmine, cashew, flinty minerality
  Pair it with: Grilled prawns, roasted chicken, veggie pasta
• Yering Station Little Yering Chardonnay (Yarra Valley) (~$25)
  Lemon, pink grapefruit, white stone fruit, papaya
  Pair it with: Pork tenderloin, creamy mushroom risotto, brie

🌍 Celebrate International Chardonnay Day with Global Chardonnay Favorites

• Sol de Sol Chardonnay (Chile) (~$28)
  Citrus, white flowers, creamy texture, toasted oak, vibrant acidity
  Pair it with: Grilled sea bass, roasted chicken, buttery shellfish
• Hamilton Russell Chardonnay (South Africa) (~$44)
  Pear, lime, bright acidity, dry minerality, elegant and textured
  Pair it with: Roast chicken, crab dip, soft cheeses
• Planeta Chardonnay (Sicily, Italy) (~$47)
  Yellow peach, acacia honey, marzipan, toasted cereal, mineral, creamy texture
  Pair it with: Seafood risotto, roast chicken, grilled vegetables
• Kumeu River Village Chardonnay (New Zealand) (~$25)
  Lime, lemon, vibrant acidity, subtle oak, fresh and lively finish
  Pair it with: Seafood, tempura veggies, goat cheese

Final Sips

From bold and buttery to bright and mineral-driven, Chardonnay has a style for every palate. Whether you’re new to the grape or a longtime fan, this is the perfect time to explore the best Chardonnay wines for International Chardonnay Day. With so many regional styles and food-friendly options, it’s easy to find a bottle that fits your taste. Open a few and enjoy tasting the difference for yourself.

✨ Want a quick reference to bring to your next wine night?
Download the Chardonnay Tasting Guide — complete with tasting notes, regional highlights, and perfect pairings for every pour.