2020 Chehalem Sparkling Brut

NOTES FROM THE WINEMAKER

Refined and nuanced, this wine offers subtle aromas of white flowers, brioche, and pink lady apples. Vibrant and bright on the palate, there is complexity of flavor and depth of texture, with fine, consistent bubbles. Flavors of fresh lemon and juicy apple come through, while the mid-palate rounds out into soft, lingering texture, finishing on a high note of balance and delicacy.

VINTAGE OVERVIEW

The 2020 vintage started like a classic, cool-climate Oregon growing season. A cold spike and rain event during bloom created a historically low fruit set. Summer was moderate, and the clusters growing on the vines were extremely small with tiny berries bursting with flavor. As harvest was starting in early September, a freak windstorm created wildfires putting the vintage in jeopardy. We persisted because of our conviction for the fruit’s quality and our belief in our winemaking team’s ability. The resulting 2020 wines are dense with layers of aromatics and structure. Despite challenges, the 2020 wines are beautiful.