If it’s oaky, drink it while you’re grilling.

Does your cheap Chardonnay smell like a burning 2-by-4? It may have been subjected to a process whereby big tea bags full of charred wood chips were dunked in it prior to bottling. If this seems to be the case remember that smoky foods work well with smoky wines, and a charcoal-grilled burger is one of the best kind of distraction for your palate.