With 13.5% alcohol, excellent for Napa Valley, the 2013 Franciscan Estate Chardonnay cost under $20 and had pear, apple, and just enough subtle aromas of oak. It scored 17 points on the Dionysian scale of a possible 20.

At three years old, the wine will develop for another three years and hold nicely for five years after that.

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Drink your New World Chardonnays younger than Old World examples. White Burgundy will hold 10 to 15 years when stored correctly.

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Scallops, potato paddy and freshly picked asparagus were enlivened with the Chardonnay.

Sauvignon Blanc is what I usually use, but the scallops pair better with Chardonnay. In vino veritas.