2023 Elouan Reserve Chardonnay
2023 HARVEST REPORT
The 2023 growing season in Oregon started with a cold, dry winter, followed by a wet and chilly early spring. But from late April through summer, warm, dry weather took over, accelerating bloom and ripening. Ideal conditions led to an early veraison and balanced fruit development. August's heat ensured optimal maturity, while brief fall rains extended hang time, allowing us to harvest perfectly ripened grapes for our Elouan Reserve Chardonnay. Sourced from diverse vineyard sites, this Chardonnay showcases vibrant acidity with layers of melon, peach, lemon, green apple, and ripe pear, complemented by floral aromatics of lemon blossom and wildflowers. Harvest spanned mid-September to early October, capturing the season's exceptional character.
WINEMAKER NOTES
Our Elouan Reserve Chardonnay is whole-cluster pressed for a delicate extraction, then cold-settled for 36 hours. Native yeast fermentation takes place in 70% new French oak and 30% once-used French oak barrels. The wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation and ages on fine lees for 14 months, with bi-weekly stirring to enhance texture and depth. Final blending focuses on showcasing the purity, richness, and coastal vibrancy of Oregon Chardonnay. The result is a layered, expressive wine with refined structure and a long, elegant finish.
