2023 Benmar ‘Sand Dune’ Chardonnay Willamette Valley

DEC94 The fruit for this Oregon Chardonnay is sourced from a 6.5-hectare site located approximately 1.5 km from Lange and Alexana, where vines are rooted in the renowned Jory soils of the Dundee Hills AVA. This wine exudes the unmistakable character of a Pacific Northwest Chardonnay, marked by its clean, bright, and vivid elegance, paired with pure fruit expression that captures energy and tension. Aromatics are infused with the freshness of grapes growing in the cool air of nearby conifer forests and bubbling springs, showcasing lime and lemon pith, white flowers, orange oil, and Marcona almond notes, all of which build weight and luxurious textures on the medium-bodied palate, supported by grippy acidity and mineral tension that stretches through the long, lingering finish. Aged for 14 months in 20% new French oak, the wine’s pure fruit and mineral-driven character are beautifully preserved.

Oregon Chardonnay is all the rage! A refreshing Chardonnay from the same vineyard in the Dundee Hills, our Chardonnay walks the line between racy, elegant white Burgundy and the rich, buttery, oaky examples from California. The aromatic profile is a symphony of floral notes, with delicate hints of orange peel, lemon verbena, and a touch of hazelnut.