Lange Estate Winery & Vineyards, Chardonnay Classique, 2021, Willamette Valley, Oregon, US

As fresh as an Oregon morning and just as layered — pear, lemon, and pastry.

About the wine

In a State with such unique geology and changeable climate, its vulnerable grapes reach maturity slowly, making Oregon an unlikely, but incredible winemaking location. 

The Classique series includes three varietals—pinot gris, chardonnay, and pinot noir. The provenance of this tier of wines is Oregon’s North Willamette Valley, a broad and diverse American Viticultural Area. These bottlings are a reflection of the region’s unique climate, geography, and growing conditions on a macro scale. The Classique series is rambunctious and fruit-driven in style, with the character to bring enjoyment over the long term. The 2021 Classique Chardonnay is a vibrant blend of fruit from Freedom Hill, Durant, and the Lange Estate vineyards.

Tasting notes

Pear and yellow apple aromas mingle with notes of fresh-baked pastry and blanched almond. The palate mirrors the nose with d’Anjou pear, melon, and lemon zest over a flinty core. Supple and fresh, it drives forward with steely acidity and impressive persistence, finishing on orchard fruit, lemon zest, and crushed stone.

About the winemaker

From the heart of the Pacific Northwest, is a tale of artisan winemaking in a region much better known for its weather! The Lange family (firstly Don and now Jesse), have forged their own path in their beloved Oregon, through sustainable means of production, and supporting charities in their local community. In a State with such unique geology and changeable climate, its vulnerable grapes reach maturity slowly, making Oregon an unlikely, but incredible winemaking location. It’s fair to say that family runs deep in this Estate, (keen fly-fisher Jesse, even put his other passion into their logo) and the Oregon spirit runs right through them. That’s something we’ll happily drink to!

92 Points | Decanter
“Richly aromatic, the Classique is a Willamette Valley blend with well-established vineyards like Freedom Hill, Durant Estate, and Lange Estate fruit. The wines is made with oak, concrete and steel fermentation lots. Notes of honeysuckle and toasted almond spiced pear lead the aromatics, and the palate is rich, with great texture: bruised apples, grilled pineapple and cardamom spice. Drinking Window 2024-2030.“ - Clive Pursehouse