I’ve been trying to rebalance my cellar, reducing the amount of Pinot Noir (which we’re drinking less) and increasing the amount of Chardonnay (which never seems to stay around). So for the Spring releases in Oregon I’ve been buying a lot more Chardonnay. Here are a few that I picked up:
2011 Walter Scott Chardonnay - I actually picked up a case of this a few months ago, and it is already almost gone. Nice citrus flavors with a little green apple, good acidity, a little on the lean side, very good finish.
2011 Walter Scott Chardonnay Cuvee Anne - Very similar to the regular Chardonnay, with a little more depth, richness, and complexity. A poised wine that should reward cellaring.
2010 Westrey Reserve Chardonnay - This exists somewhere between California and Burgundy. Less defined that the Walter Scott, but bigger, richer, and in some ways racier. Excellent finish.
2011 Westrey Chardonnay - Tight, acidic (didn’t go through malo), green apples, a little citrus, great intensity, needs several years in the bottle to show its best.
2011 Eyrie Chardonnay - This exists somewhere between the Walter Scott and the Westrey. Very tight, great intensity, great mouth-feel, a little more length than either, again, needs several years to be at its best.
2010 Blackcap Chardonnay - This is Jason Lett’s personal project. Wow! Meyer Lemon, green apple, a little white pepper, incredible mouth-feel, intense and light on it feet, yet rich and powerful, great balance and finish. A superb wine. Expensive but worth it.