2014 Gran Moraine Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.0% alc., pH 3.23, TA 0.63, $45, Diam. Vineyard planted in 2005 to several different Dijon clones. One of the more westerly vineyards in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA and thus subject to cooling afternoon breezes that roll off the Pacific. Gently whole cluster pressed, natural fermentation over 16 months with monthly stirring of the lees. After 16 months in barrel (7.5% new), the wine was fully racked to a stainless steel tank and left to mature outside in the cold Northwest winter. The extended aging provided natural cold stability to the wine. · Moderate golden yellow color and clear in the glass. The aromas of Meyer lemon, honey, pear, white peach and buttery brioche soar from the glass. Crisp and bright in the mouth, with effusive flavors of citrus, apple, apricot and spice with a flinty compliment. A stunning wine with inviting balance and a mouthwatering finish. Still enduring when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. I also tasted this wine at a restaurant in San Francisco with the same impression and found it to be a perfect food wine. Score: 98. Reviewed May 6, 2017

Winery: Gran Moraine Winery
From article: Surprise Yourself with Oregon Chardonnay