Robert Parker - 96
The 2019 Chardonnay Yamhill Valley Vineyard was matured in equal parts French and Oregon oak. This vintage has a singular expression that pairs richness and electricity. The nose offers pure white peach, lime panna cotta, roasted almonds and streaks of graphite, and the palate reveals that same dynamism, with tangy acidity that balances creamy citrus fruit and creates a shimmery feel on the long finish.
Published: Sep 29, 2023
tasting notes
flint, cheese rind, lemon, apple, pear, spice—remarkable tension and intensity—textured, balanced, resonant—a delightfully complex and refreshing wine
ava McMinnville
elevation / aspect 340 - 450 ft, south-facing 20% slope
soils series Dixonville, Gellatly, Witzel (volcanic basalt)
planted 2003—Intermixed clones Dijon 76 and 95
harvest Sept. 21 & Oct. 2, 2019
Press regime whole cluster, oxidative juice handling (without sulfur)
elevage 21 months in 228L & 400L Oregon & French cooperage (neutral)
bottled July 15, 2021, Unfined, 13.3% Alc.
cases produced 190 (750ml x12)
The Terroir
Yamhill Valley Vineyard is positioned within the McMinnville ava in the foothills of the Coast Range, along the edge of the Van Duzer Corridor—the "air-conditioning" pathway through the Coast Range where cool marine air pours in from the ocean 30 miles away. The cooling winds and cool mountain air translate to Chardonnay with refreshing, intense qualities. The shallow volcanic soils and steep, south-facing slope of the Fromage and Hilltop blocks have little water-holding capacity, causing stress to the vines and resulting in sparse canopies and loose clusters of unusually small, sun-kissed, thick-skinned chardonnay berries, giving tremendous depth and texture to the wine. Our goal for Chardonnay is to achieve a tension between expressive fruit, vibrant acidity, and subtle yet complex aromas. This exceptional block of vines offers a balance of depth, breadth and focus that amazes us every year.
