A garden party in a glass, this stainless-vinified blend of 30% Grenache Blanc, 25% Roussanne 20% Viognier, and 15% each Clairette and Marsanne bespeaks a bevy of blossoms—honeysuckle, rose, gardenia—in addition to plenty of punchy peach and lime on both nose and palate. Six months of lees aging adds volume up front, but a saline streak narrows the focus on the finish.
Very nicely styled at an attractive price, this fresh Chardonnay shows enough complexity to measure up to heavier renditions of the variety. Set at the lighter end of medium body, its core of orchard fruit is accented by subtle scents and flavor accents of baking spices.
Thankfully, enough Pinot has now been planted in the Willamette Valley so that relatively affordable renditions are available in the region’s characteristic style. This is restrained in sweetness and weight but still nicely expressive with dark cherry fruit and very subtle tannin that lends definition.
Plum and soy sauce are up front flavors. This well-defined red elegantly settles on the palate. Blackberry jam is spiced with clove, with an oak-inspired finish.
Lemon cream shows some weight, with glistening notes of crushed stone and chamomile flowers. Honeyed pears and vanilla oak are refined and pleasant.
Lavender and boysenberries are bright and inviting, with sweet spice and a gentle woodsy character. A crowd pleaser, with polished tannins and ample acidity to maintain freshness.
Engagingly complex in both bouquet and flavors, this shows scents of cut grass, white melon, and grapefruit that all repeat on the palate. Although it is bright and fresh, there’s also good physical density and depth of flavor. Impressive for the asking price.
Ripe and approachable, with black cherry and milk chocolate enveloped in soft tannins. Along with the cushiony mouthfeel. The liquid is fresh and juicy.