Fourth-generation farmer Rob Wallace arrived in Oregon’s Rogue Valley from California to plant Del Rio in 1997, and Loire Valley native Jean-Michel Jussiaume arrived as the winemaker a decade later. His skill is apparent with this deliciously complex Chardonnay which he made using a program of 80% barrel aging with seven months on the lees. The nose is filled with Asian par, lemon and Spanish almond. Its rounded entry makes for flavors of Bosc pear, Granny Smith apple and jicama, followed by an impressively long and complex finish of Gala apple, minerality and lemon. Suggested food pairings include salmon, pork, crab cakes and chicken in a cream sauce.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 1,490 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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