What is a good, dry, inexpensive, white wine?
Chardonnay tends to be a good, all-purpose wine. If you like a woody, oaky, buttery flavor, your best bet will likely be wines from a large Californian label. You may get something a bit more fruit forward with chardonnay from elsewhere (Argentina, etc.), and wines from Chablis will generally have a more pronounced mineral flavor. This is not my favorite, but you may wish to try Cambria by Katherine Vineyards. Should be available nationally. Alternatively, you might also try a Vernaccia di San Gimigiano (not a brand, btw) which is a dry, crisp Italian wine with citrusy notes and bright acidity. Good for richer, fattier appetizers. Serve well chilled. Should be inexpensive most everywhere (on the west coast, this is around $9-15).