Lingua Franca Chardonnay "Sisters" 2016
(Eola Amity Hills, Oregon) - [VM 95] [WS 93]

This Chardonnay combines the finest lots of the vintage, from 100% Jory and Nekia soils in the Eola-Amity Hills, Bunker Hill (Salem) and Dundee.

Production Notes:
The grapes were picked to maximize freshness and tension in the finished wine. Whole cluster pressed, settled in tank for 24 hours on average, barrel fermented in a combination of 20% new, 600 liter puncheons and 80% old French oak barriques from diverse coopers and left to age for 10 months. Full malolactic fermentation completed in each vessel and then the wines were put back in tank with their lees for 4 months prior to bottling.

Aging: 20% new, 600 liter puncheons and 80% old French oak barriques for 10 months.
Alcohol: 12.5%

Tasting Notes

The depth of flavor in the fruit creates a wine that is intense and long. It can seem racy one moment and dense and rich the next, making it lively and multifaceted.

Ratings & Reviews

95 Points - Vinous:
"ight, vivid straw. Vibrant, mineral-tinged citrus and orchard fruit aromas are complemented by a building honeysuckle nuance and an exotic touch of saffron. Shows impressive depth as well as energy to the sappy nectarine and pear flavors, along with a firming snap of bitter lemon pith. Powerful yet delicate in style, finishing minerally, focused and extremely long, with lingering florality and a sneaky oyster shell nuance. (Drink between 2021-2027)" - Josh Raynolds (9/1/20)

93 Points - Wine Spectator:
"Sleek and refined, with elegant apple, quince and river rock accents that build complexity and richness on a long, crisp finish. Drink now through 2021. 141 cases made." - TF (Issue Nov 15, 2018)