Walter Scott 'Cuvée Anne' Chardonnay, Willamette Valley, Oregon

A selection of barrels from five vineyards, 2023 Walter Scott Cuvee Anne Chardonnay brings together the breadth and precision of the Eola-Amity Hills. Justice, Koosah, Sojeau, Witness Tree and X Novo each contribute to a blend shaped by volcanic and marine sedimentary soils. Twelve months in French oak followed by four months in stainless steel build a wine of generous texture, bright citrus and persistent mineral tension.

Product Details:

• Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay.
• ABV: 13%.
• Pressing: Gently crushed and pressed using a bladder press.
• Yeast: Ambient yeasts.
• Fermentation and Maturation: Fermented and aged in 350-litre and 500-litre French oak barrels for 12 months, followed by four months in stainless steel.
• New Oak: 45%.
• Lees Management: Minimal bâtonnage.
• Malolactic Fermentation: 100% complete.
• Finishing: Lightly filtered for clarity.
• Farming: Organic.
• Vineyard Sources: Justice, Koosah, Sojeau, Witness Tree and X Novo.
• Soils: Volcanic and marine sedimentary.
• Selection: A blend of selected barrels from the contributing vineyards.
• Production: 650 cases.
• Owners: Ken Pahlow, Erica Landon, Andy Steinman and Sue Steinman.
• Winemaker: Ken Pahlow.

Sensory Description:

Golden apple, pear and nectarine meet lime, hazelnut and beeswax, with flint and delicate smoke adding savoury complexity. The medium-bodied palate is silky and rounded, balanced by mouthwatering acidity and a saline mineral thread. Ripe orchard fruit unfolds alongside citrus and subtle baking spice, carrying through a long, energetic finish.

Awards & Accolades:

• Scores: Decanter, Clive Pursehouse, 96 points; Wine Advocate, Erin Brooks, 94 points, November 2025; JebDunnuck.com, Audrey Frick, 94 points; Vinous, Eric Guido, 93 points, July 2025; Wine Enthusiast, Michael Alberty, 93 points, November 2025; Owen Bargreen, 93 points, July 2025.

Winemaker's Background:

Ken Pahlow and Erica Landon founded Walter Scott in 2008, drawing on their savings, family support, and years of experience working in Oregon wine. Ken’s cellar experience included St. Innocent, Patricia Green Cellars and Evening Land, where working alongside Dominique Lafon deepened his focus on Chardonnay. Andy and Sue Steinman joined as partners in 2012. Cuvée Anne acknowledges both Erica and her mother, Elizabeth Anne McKinnon, whose early financial support helped turn the winery’s ambitions into reality.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at approximately 10–12°C in a generously proportioned Chardonnay glass. Pair with roast chicken, butter-basted fish, scallops, lobster or mushroom risotto. Its acidity also complements creamy sauces and mature cheeses. Enjoy now with gentle aeration if initially reserved, or cellar in cool, stable conditions for further development.