Ken Wright - Willamette Valley Chardonnay 2023
Price: $39.99
Sale Price: $25.99
6+ Price: $24.99 / btl
| Producer | Ken Wright |
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| Country | United States |
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| Region | Oregon |
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| Varietal | Chardonnay |
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| Vintage | 2023 |
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| Sku | 19223 |
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| Size | 750ml |
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Earlier this week, I opined it has never been a better time to be a lover of Chardonnay. Quality and variety are through the roof. Unfortunately, when you look to the standard bearers of Burgundy (Chassagne, Puligny, Meursault…) and California (Napa, Sonoma, Russian River…) the prices are also through the roof.
The quest, then, is for value!
Let’s turn our attention now to Oregon. Everyone knows Oregon produces world-class Pinot Noir. With Burgundy as inspiration, it should stand to reason they could produce some solid Chardonnay there as well. And indeed they can. And do. Just not very much of it. Only 7% of Oregon’s vineyards are planted to Chardonnay!
The reason is simple - $$$. When Oregon burst on the wine scene in the 1980s, it was a blank slate. Pinot Noir was the wine that put them in the spotlight, so that’s where the money and vineyards went. Fast-forward and hardly anyone thinks of Oregon when considering Chardonnay.
Wines like this could change that perception. If only it were three times the price, the wineries might take notice. Why sell Chardonnay for $25 when you can sell Pinot for $75?
So take advantage before they figure it out!
This gem offers the best of both New and Old World stylings… ripe apple and pear fruit reflects the sunny days, while vibrant acidity and flinty minerality speaks to the cooler temperatures. An 8 month sojourn in neutral oak barrels brings everything together, adding just a hint of vanilla and spice. At 13.5% alcohol, this is neither light nor heavy. As Goldilocks would say, “It’s just right!”
For the money? I would say, “Back up the truck!”
Jeb Dunnuck: 94 Points
“It has a lovely nose of flinty wet stone, lemon oils, poached apple, delicate sweet
spice, and brothy, salty earth. It has a lovely, juicy feel on the palate, with a refined and elegant, supple, silky texture, as well as a beautifully long finish. Offering real depth and complexity without being heavy, it’s going to drink well over the next 10 years. A very impressive Chardonnay from Ken, it’s showing a lot of promise.”
Wine Spectator: 92 Points
"This white is vibrant and luscious, with pear and tropical fruit flavors laced with hints of vanilla and spices. Finishes on a zesty accent. Drink now. 3,472 cases made."
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