Winemaker Notes
As the U.S.’ first commercial grower of Dijon Clones Chardonnay, Argyle helped lay the groundwork for Oregon viticulture that followed. Dijon clones are well-matched to our climate in Oregon because it is so similar to that of Burgundy.
Food Pairing Notes
Argyle Chardonnays have what we refer to as an "International Palate" that denotes a kinship with styles of Chardonnay that are well known in Burgundy.
Vineyard Notes
The growing season began with a moderate winter followed by a wet spring, leading to a mid-to-late
April budbreak. A cool, rainy middle of June lead to a challenging bloom, resulting in some of our
lowest yields in a long time. The rest of the summer was quite beautiful—a classic no-AC-required
Oregon summer. A late August/early September heat spike accelerated ripening, which sent us into
harvest mode on September 1st with Chardonnay at Lone Star Vineyard. After a week of picking,
easterly winds blew smoke from the Cascades into the Valley, causing us to stop and re-evaluate our
harvest plans. We moved with Mother Nature and decided not to pick anymore red grapes after the
fires in order to focus on sparkling wine, chardonnay, riesling and still wine rosé, keeping wine
quality at the core and focusing on gentle, low-yield pressing. We finished picking on October 23rd,
with a small parcel of late-ripening Lone Star riesling.
Accolades
“The 2020 Chardonnay Lone Star Vineyard opens with flint and almonds that give way to a core of red apple and wafts of pie crust, baking spice and jasmine. Light-bodied and delicate, the palate's tangy acidity is balanced by a rounded texture, and it has a long, leesy finish. It's a refreshing Chardonnay to drink over the next few years.” -Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate