2019 GOWC Coles Valley Vyd Umpqua Valley Chardonnay

13.5

Aromas of white peach and lemon myrtle. Flavors of lemon oleo saccharum and brioche wrapped around a core of vibrant acidity. Elegant, sur lie character and a long, rich finish.

Just south of the Willamette Valley lies the warmer Umpqua Valley AVA, home to the 300 acre Cole’s Valley Vineyard. Fruit from this vineyard site produces highly perfumed wines with bright fruitiness and a pleasing softness on the palate. 100% Estate, Coles Valley Vineyard, Clones 69, 76, 95, and Wente.

Handpicked fruit, pressed immediately. 67% Barrel Fermented in neutral oak and 33% stainless steel drum fermented. Aged sur lie seven months before being blended, filtered and bottled.

2019 began with a warm, wet spring and bud break commenced on schedule in April. A cool spell of weather in June around bloom naturally modulated fruit set, lowering yields. The late spring and summer were warmer than average but lacked notable heat spikes, allowing for steady vine growth and development during the growing season through véraison, which took place in mid-August. A cooling trend starting in early September slowed ripening at the final moments, allowing for additional hang time and flavor development while keeping the fruit in perfect balance until harvest began in mid-September. The 2019 wines are marked by vibrant fruit flavors, ageworthy structure, and food-friendly acidity.