I had never heard the term “inox" until I heard French winemakers talk about their stainless steel tanks they were using for fermentation and storage of their wines. So, when Harry Peterson-Nedry released his first INOX Chardonnay, I knew he meant it was an unoaked wine. It is still a charming study in pure Chardonnay. It boasts aromas of fresh peaches, apples, pears, Rainier cherry with Meyer lemon zest. In the mouth, those fresh and juicy fruits are electrified with exuberant acidity. Think of Spring in a glass. It is delightful as an aperitif. Pair it with fresh crabmeat or a bruschetta with fresh goat cheese and roasted bell peppers. Enjoy.
Chehalem, Willamette Valley (Oregon) UnOaked Chardonnay 2021
By Rebecca Murphy