Is there such a thing as a good Chardonnay?

[joeyz6]

Hi Vivian. Regarding the best vintages, the West Coast has been good for Chard since 1994 (especially 94-97 and 99). From what I've read and tasted, 2000 has proven to be pretty good too. One you might try that is very affordable and I thought was excellent is the 2000 Columbia Crest Grand Estates, from Washington, which should run you about $10-12.
White wine from Burgundy, which is almost always made of Chardonnay and has less Oak flavor, has been solid since 1994. You might try something from Macon or Chablis, as WOW already mentioned.
Kim Crawford is a New Zealand wine. I think it's fairly easy to find (try wine-searcher.com), and it's not expensive (under $20). Another unwooded New World Chard is Goundrey, from Australia, which is probably more readily available and maybe a bit cheaper.