By Chris and Sherry Hardie Chardonnay continues to be far and away America's most popular wine, representing more than 20 percent of all wine sales. With nearly 95,000 acres planted in California, chardonnay represents 27 percent of all wine shipped from that state. This Central Coast chardonnay thrives in the climate that features sunny days and cool nights. The wine features tropical flavors and a buttery finish, thanks to the malolactic fermentation that converts malic acid to lactic acid. There's also a hint of vanilla, courtesy of being aged for nine months in oak barrels. This is probably the best value chardonnay we've sampled in a while. Sherry: "Lemon flavor and a trace of butterscotch on the finish." 3 stars Chris: "Floral aroma, pear and a creamy finish." 3-1/2 stars Available locally for about $9. Coming next week: Seven Hawks La Crescent Reserve