Chehalem, Willamette Valley (Oregon) Chardonnay 2020

 Pale yellow color and delightfully heady, orange blossom aromas announce succulent flavors of apple, peach, ripe melon laced with floral notes sustained by vivacious acidity.   Inox refers to the stainless steel tanks used to ferment and store the wine before bottling.  No oak is used in making the wine.  As winemaker Katie Santora says, “this wine is first and foremost made in the vineyard,” it is the first wine of a vintage to be released so “it provides a snapshot of the vintage.”  Chehalem has been making this wine for many years beginning at a time when the Chardonnay popular style was big and buttery.  They were taking a chance, but with fruit like this, why not let it shine?  Santora says that she often has visitors reluctant to taste this wine because they say they don’t like Chardonnay.  After tasting the Inox they are amazed that it is indeed Chardonnay and they like it.