Domaine Drouhin "Arthur" Estate Chardonnay 2023
(Dundee Hills, Oregon) - [WS 93] [JS 93] [DM 91]

About the Wine:
The Chardonnay Arthur is produced from 100% Dijon clones, grown on the Drouhin Family Estate in the Dundee Hills of Oregon. First planted in 1990, the low yields of these vines and their early ripening ability have been a perfect match for our climate and soils. Arthur, named for Véronique’s son, is a wine that captures the bright, crisp acidity and mineral character of the vineyard, balanced with richness and lovely length.

It is named after Véronique Boss-Drouhin' son. The yields are contained and the vine has an early ripening capacity. Domaine Drouhin Oregon is certified « Low Input Viticulture Environment » for sustainable viticulture.

Winemaking:

Our Chardonnay was hand-picked into small crates, and then whole-cluster pressed. It was partly fermented in French Oak barrels to reveal the complexity of the fruit through the slow breathing process that happens in wood. The rest was fermented and aged in stainless steel to keep the vibrancy and fruitiness. Véronique then blended these two portions to create a wine of a more delicate nature - Arthur. It is as if one brought together elements of a pure Chablis and an elegant Meursault.

Tasting Notes:
Expressive and vibrant, our Chardonnay Arthur opens with a flourish of tart green apple and a focused bouquet of orange blossom and nicely ripe melon. There is lemon zest, honeysuckle, and fresh almonds on the palate, with a note of pear essence on the finish. It offers a nice balanced acidity and a medium-long finish. 

Ratings & Reviews

93 Points - Wine Spectator 

"Elegantly structured, rich and refined, with polished apple, lemongrass and spice flavors that build tension on the sleek finish. Drink now. 3,232 cases made." – Tim Fish (Mar 2025)

93 Points - James Suckling 

"Nicely broad and rich in texture, ample and welcoming, with baked apple, cinnamon, light butter and vanilla flavors. Easy and rather soft, with gentle acidity and good length in the finish. Drink now." (Mar 2025)

91 Points - Decanter Magazine 

"From the Dundee Hills site, Arthur is flashy and opulent with aromatics of poached pear, nutmeg-spiced apples and honeysuckle blossom. The palate is rounded and ripe with sweet pineapple, bruised apples and creamy notes of pear custard." – Clive Pursehouse (Feb 2025)