From: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Varietal: Chardonnay
Established in 1987, Domaine Drouhin Oregon is owned by famed Burgundy producer, Maison Joseph Drouhin. Hand-crafted by fourth-generation winemaker, Veronique Drouhin-Boss, the distinctive Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays of Domaine Drouhin are prized for their elegance, balance, and finesse, as well as their ability to age. Philippe Drouhin, Veronique's brother, is in charge of viticulture and has earned an international reputation for his work both in Burgundy and Oregon. Domaine Drouhin Oregon's landmark four-level gravity-flow winery is nestled into the heart of the Dundee Hills AVA.
From what began as test plantings of cloned Pinot Noir rootstock, Domaine Drouhin now encompasses 124 acres of hillside vineyards. Interspersed with the Pinot Noir vines are 11 acres of Chardonnay, planted at various elevations and, like in Burgundy, planted right alongside rows of Pinot Noir. The Arthur Chardonnay comes from clones from Dijon. First planted in 1990, the low yields of these vines and their early ripening ability have been a perfect match for our climate and soils. Arthur, named for Véronique’s son, is a wine that captures the bright, crisp acidity and mineral character of the vineyard, and is balanced with richness and lovely length.
Tasting Notes: The 2019 Arthur is joyously fresh and fragrant, with the intricacy and detail of spring blossoms. Here, clarity of flavor and balanced precisions are front and center, lifting the pure chardonnay expression effortlessly from the glass. One finds aromatic notes of Anjou pear, green apple blossom, cardamom, and coriander. Refinement and elegance follow through on the palate, all wrapped in a very fine texture. Enjoy now, but I expect this Arthur to age beautifully for the next 5-7 years.
Pairing: There’s a curious spice note, like turmeric, rendering the finish lean, slightly dusty, and on point for a wild mushroom pasta.