Owen Roe 2015 DuBrul Vineyard Chardonnay, Yakima Valley, $48
Dr. Hugh and Kathy Shiels of Côte Bonneville fame direct the hand-harvesting of their low-producing vines in the Rattlesnake Hills for David O’Reilly, and the Union Gap vintner has turned the lot into one of the most charming Chardonnay bottlings released this year. His investment of 35% new French oak and 40% malolactic fermentation combines for engaging aromas of crushed banana, white peach, dried apricot, pineapple taffy and apple blossom. There’s a match on the palate as the graceful use of oak allows for light toffee, almond and butterscotch flavors, backed by bright and juicy orchard fruit .
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 480 cases
Alcohol: 13%
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