Big Table Farm 'The Wild Bee' Chardonnay, Willamette Valley, USA 2022

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 2022, 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.

In the Willamette Valley, whispers of the Pacific Ocean dance through the chardonnay vines. Upon the first encounter, you are greeted with a vibrant bouquet with white peaches and grapefruit peels. Freshly cut pineapple leads a cascade of zest and zeal. Key lime cuts through with an invigorating invitation. Smooth and comforting, vanilla bean sets the stage for a decadent slice of yellow cake layered with passionfruit jam. Murmurs of green apple add a refreshing applause.