I love Champagne. I'd be happy if I had a glass of it every day. The more Champagne I drink, the higher my standards are for sparkling wine.
That's a nice way of saying that I'm awfully critical of Oregon sparkling wine. Most of it is over-sweet and over-priced, which makes my gushing over this brand new Oregon sparkler all the more surprising, especially to me. - Marcus
Michael Lundeen has changed my opinion of how great Oregon sparkling wine can be. My go-to Champagnes finally have some local competition.
Michael, who we've found to be modest when it comes to his winemaking prowess, could barely contain his confident enthusiasm. For example, when I said, "this is the s#!t" he pretty much said, "yup."
It's all about balance. I want richness but there has to be corresponding acidity. And this has an incredible, mouthwatering acidity that cuts through the lovely richness. Citrus and stone fruit elements are present, gliding on the creamy mousse and playing with subtle spice, preserved Meyer lemon, and fresh brioche notes.
An obvious investment in time, the Chardonnay was barrel fermented before spending four years en triage. Only four barrels were made, so this might have to be a "quiet" Oregon sparkling wine revolution.