Oregon Chardonnay Gains World Acclaim
Why has there been an increasing fascination, and of course consumption, of Chardonnay from Willamette Valley, Oregon? Statistics reveal that this grape in the near future may overtake Pinot Gris as the second most widely planted grape in the state. In all likelihood, Pinot Noir will always hold the coveted number one spot. The charisma of this varietal is well-known among Oregonians, yet interest in this grape is spreading beyond their borders. The resurgence of interest in Chardonnay from Willamette Valley may be attributed to factors including clonal selections, geographical vineyard location, advances in vineyard management and winemaking techniques. More importantly, consumers have been attracted to this cool climate grape in Oregon because it is lively and expressive, laced with minerality and mixed with an overflow of stone yellow fruits.
