Is Chardonnay oaky and buttery?

Mostly not anymore. Modern Australian Chardonnay is defined by freshness — citrus, white peach, subtle struck-match complexity and well-integrated oak. If you 'don't like Chardonnay', you probably don't like 1995 — try one made this decade.

What's the difference between Chablis and Chardonnay?

Chablis IS Chardonnay — from a cool, chalky region of northern Burgundy that produces the leanest, most mineral expression of the grape, usually with little or no new oak.

Which Australian region makes the best Chardonnay?

Margaret River and the Yarra Valley trade blows at the top, with Tasmania and the Adelaide Hills close behind. Each has a distinct accent — half the fun is comparing them.