Big Table Farm 'The Wild Bee' Chardonnay, Willamette Valley, USA 2021

We love chardonnay and we love making it.  So straightforward and yet delicious at the same time.  Like the Willamette Valley Pinot, the Wild Bee is comprised of all the vineyards we work with, 7 in 2021, so a true representation of the Willamette Valley.  Brian visits each site regularly and makes picking decisions mostly using his palate.  He usually waits until he tastes flavors of ripeness and looks for signals in the grape (browning seeds, softening skins) and vine (some browning leaves) – and of course what the imminent weather presents.

tasting notes -
Reminiscent of a misty morning stroll on the coast, this intriguing chardonnay deftly balances sprightly vibrance with soothing comfort. Aromas of freshly sliced yellow apple, orange blossom and crushed seashells casually entice the senses. Warming impressions of lemon panna cotta and honeycomb develop on the palate before gently drifting away, leaving an essence of freshly baked brioche and apricot jam.

94 pts — Wine Enthusiast Editors’ Choice
94 pts — International Wine Report
93 pts — Decanter