Louis Jadot Bourgogne Chardonnay and Mild Gouda

Light gold hues make the Louis Jadot Bourgogne Chardonnay 2007 ($18) shine out of the glass. Aromas of grapefruit, pear and vanilla float into the air with a good swirl. The flavors are supple, with a backbone of orange peel and lemon zest. This is an inexpensive way to enjoy the fruits of the Burgundy region from a fine producer that's celebrating 150 years in the winemaking business.

Try serving this bottle at a party along with some cubes of mild Gouda cheese, but make sure not to overchill the wine as it will mute the aromas. Even the mild version of Gouda has a bit of an acidic bite to it, which plays well off the mineral and fruit-zest flavors of the Jadot.