The Pinot Noir and Chardonnay produced by acclaimed winemaker Tony Rynders for this young brand, created by Marnie Wall and her husband, Brett, will elevate the profile of the nascent Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon appellation — established July 5, 2022 as the state’s 23rd American Viticultural Area. Two of the 10 blocks farmed organically by Oregon State University grad Alex Cabrera are dedicated to Chardonnay, spanning three acres and featuring Dijon clones 76 and 95. Rynders devoted 16 months to a program of French oak — 33% new barrels — and that oak influence is discrete. Suave aromas of marshmallow and dried apricot also pick up hominy, lime soda, mineralty and white pepper. Flavors are led with dried pear and a bite of biscotti, leading to some slatiness on the midpalate and a late burst of lemon oil in the finish. The resonating brightness of this long-lived style makes it a Chardonnay for those who enjoy the structure of a bone-dry German Grosses Gewächs.
Rating: Outstanding! — 92 points
Production: 67 cases
Alcohol 13.5%
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