Maison L'Envoyé Straight Shooter Chardonnay 2021

Alcohol: 13.5%

Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay

Localization: Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA

Tasting Notes: Lively aromas of fresh pear and Macintosh apple, with a hint of vanilla and baking spice lift from the glass. A light, fresh body features a smooth approach, fleshy and alive with loads of fresh citrus, white peach and quince. A standout Chardonnay from the Willamette Valley at an incredible value.

Notes: The grapes were harvested in the cold of the morning and transported to the winery. Bunches were immediately pressed and the juice was transferred to stainless steel tanks for cold settling. After being racked off solids the juice was allowed to warm naturally and was then inoculated with cold tolerant yeasts. After fermentation, 50% of the wine was matured in seasoned French oak for 10 months prior to bottling.

The Domain: Driven by a tireless hunt for elusive sites where Pinot Noir shines, Maison L'Envoyé traverses the globe with the intention of presenting the acme of regionality and winemaking styles. Originating in Burgundy, they pursued gilded terroir to craft this region's wine trinity: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Gamay Noir. Yet from this tenor of focus and commitment a global fellowship emerged, with terroir-driven Pinot Noir as the linchpin. Now, with winemaking footprints in Burgundy, Willamette Valley, Tasmania and Central Otago, Maison L'Envoyé champions many unsung growers who have farmed their vineyards for decades and generations, some mere feet away from more illustriously cited neighbors. This project has been a standout since its debut in 2011 including Wine & Spirits naming Maison L'Envoyé a 'Winery To Watch' in 2015.