Domaine Drouhin 'Arthur' Chardonnay, Dundee Hills, Oregon

"Elegance from Oregon: Domaine Drouhin's Arthur Chardonnay"

A Legacy of Precision and Passion

Domaine Drouhin stands as a beacon of viticultural excellence in the verdant expanses of Dundee Hills, Oregon. Here, the Drouhin family's vision—to create wines that rival the great vintages of Burgundy—finds its expression. The story of the 2021 Domaine Drouhin 'Arthur' Chardonnay is a chapter from this narrative, a testament to a legacy that intertwines the finesse of Burgundy with Oregon's terroir.

Crafting 'Arthur': A Homage to Heritage

Named affectionately after Véronique Drouhin's son, the 'Arthur' Chardonnay embodies the Drouhin Family Estate's prowess. Cultivated from 100% Dijon clones, these vines, first planted in 1990, yield grapes that capture the essence of the Dundee Hills. These clones' low yields and early ripening nature perfectly match the region's climate, resulting in a wine that balances crisp acidity with a rich mineral character.

2021 Vintage: A Symphony of Balance

The 2021 vintage emerged triumphantly from a season of dramatic climatic shifts. A warm, dry spring gave way to a hotter summer, punctuated by notable heat spikes. Yet, as the vines thrived, a more excellent September allowed for an extended harvest, culminating in grapes with complex flavors and an elegant balance. This harmonious interplay of elements is the foundation upon which 'Arthur' is crafted.

Winemaking Philosophy: A Dual Approach

In the hands of the Oregon team, led by the astute vision of Véronique Drouhin, the winemaking process becomes an art form. The Chardonnay grapes, hand-picked with care, undergo a dual fermentation process: part in French Oak barrels to unfurl the complexity of the fruit and part in stainless steel to preserve vibrancy and fruitiness. This careful orchestration results in 'Arthur'—a wine that harmonizes Chablis's purity with Meursault's elegance.

Véronique's Tasting Notes: A Sensory Journey

The 2021 'Arthur' opens with an expressive flourish of tart green apple, complemented by a bouquet of orange blossom and ripe melon. Lemon zest, honeysuckle, and fresh almonds adorn the palate, culminating in a note of pear essence. With balanced acidity and a medium-long finish, 'Arthur' is poised for a graceful evolution over the next decade.

Domaine Drouhin Oregon: A Commitment to Excellence

Domaine Drouhin Oregon is committed to natural craftsmanship and minimal manipulation from its gravity-flow winery to its L.I.V.E-certified sustainable practices. Each bottle of 'Arthur' Chardonnay reflects this ethos, offering a sip of the Dundee Hills, a taste of the Drouhin family's dedication, and a legacy of winemaking that spans continents and generations.

Pairings and Occasions

This Chardonnay is versatile, complementing a wide range of dishes from seafood to poultry and enhancing any dining experience with its refined complexity. Whether enjoyed in the quiet of home or shared among friends, 'Arthur' is more than just a wine—it celebrates the harmony between land, vine, and human touch.

To Joe and All Connoisseurs of Fine Wine

As you uncork this bottle, remember that you're not just tasting wine; you're partaking in the legacy of the Drouhin family, stewards of the land, and artisans of the vine. Here's to the journey ahead, with the 2021 Domaine Drouhin 'Arthur' Chardonnay as your companion. Cheers!