Rich straw color. Full aromas with ripe yellow peach, brioche, nutmeg, Honeycrisp apple, and apple cobbler crust. The density on the palate is significant with red apple, white peach, lemon curd, and the stony minerality that underlies the entire experience. While the vintage is solid for Pinot noir, all the white wines have a richness that stands out. With the richness of the 2019 vintage and 14 year old vines, buying enough to enjoy over a decade will reward the buyer. Now with DIAM closure.
Vineyard Notes
Freedom Hill is located in the foothills of the coast range 10 miles southwest of Salem, Oregon. During the day, warm air rises from the valley floor ripening the skins. At night, cool ocen breezes act to retain acidity. The Chardonnay blocks have a southwest exposure at an elevation of 520’ to 580'. The vines were planted in 2006 and 2007 with Dijon clones 76 and 548 on well-drained, very old sedimentary clay loam.
Production Notes
The grapes were whole cluster pressed. After settling, the juice was barrel fermented with indigenous yeasts. The wine completed malolactic fermentation naturally and was aged sur lees for 11 months entirely in used French oak barrels.
Winemaker Notes
2019
Food Pairing Notes
While Chardonnay is great with roast chicken, grilled duck, duck confit, pork loin, rich soups, grilled cheese and mushroom pizza would be even better.