Great Wine Values Under $15: Louis Jadot Mâcon-Villages Burgundy, France

Sometimes, less really is more. The effortless simplicity of this French chardonnay proves that wines don't have to be expensive to be classy. Americans tend to think of chardonnays as heavier white wines, because California versions so often feature a honeyed glaze of toasty oak flavor and clock in at more than 14

percent alcohol. However, the grape can make considerably lighter wines in cooler climates that would please any fan of pinot grigio or albariño. Coming in well below 13 percent alcohol, this classic example hails from chardonnay's native region of Burgundy in France. Like most Mâcon wines, it is very dry and has had no oak treatment or barrel aging that might mask its subtle apple-pear flavor. But this wine derives its finesse less from how it tastes and more from how it makes us feel. Its impeccable craftsmanship shows in an invigorating resonance on the palate after each sip that lasts longer than for most wines in this price range.

Mâcon-Villages, Burgundy, France, $12.99 (Sale price through April 30, regularly $14.99) PLCB Item # 7206.