Walter Scott La Combe Verte Chardonnay 2022

Our approach to Chardonnay pays attention to texture and structure while translating site and vintage. The result is an illuminating style of Chardonnay, showcasing density and precision. The palate accentuates notes of summer peach and bright lemon zest. As the wine evolves, layers of textures unfold to aromatic notes of crunchy nectarine and honeysuckle. Hints of hazelnut add dimension to the mineral and saline that linger on the finish. - team Walter Scott

We have a shared vision of Willamette Valley Chardonnay with Walter Scott; we've all been early and vocal proponents of the Chardonnay wave of the past decade. As such, we are qualified to say this: when you look at the Willamette Valley Chardonnay train, you will see Walter Scott driving it. The style, the framing of the conversation, Chardonnay's popularity within the context of Willamette Valley wines—Ken and Erica have been instrumental in changing the landscape for the Willamette Valley's Chard groundswell.  

And it all begins with La Combe Verte. It is a melding of substance and style, a textured tapestry of delectable fruit woven with flowers, salty minerals, vivacious acidity. And most of all, it is refreshing and fun to sip. A dream-team of vineyards make up this wine: Freedom Hill, Hyland, Koosah, Sojeau, and Witness Tree. -Marcus 

2021 vintage notes

96 points Wine Advocate: "The 2021 Chardonnay La Combe Verte opens from matchstick to intense peach perfume and nuances of beeswax, almonds and acacia. The medium-bodied palate explodes with layer after layer of powerful fruit, delivered in a luxuriously silky texture and tempered by focused acidity. The Combe Verte offers fantastic length, concentration and energy!"

Winery notes: We believe in Willamette Valley Chardonnay. This classic variety has an important place in our region and at Walter Scott, not in the replication of other inspirational regions, but in its own distinctive style, with its own compelling voice. Chardonnay is a grape which has the ability to translate our unique geology in the same way Pinot noir does. Through thoughtful farming and cellar practices, we strive to allow Chardonnay to reach its powerful Willamette Valley potential.

2015 vintage note: 

We've been waiting for this wine. Like two men walking through a desert, it's an oasis for thirsty Chardonnay drinkers. It has been a "dry" year for Oregon Chardonnay, particularly at the sub-$25 price, with only a handful achieving our standards and many leaving us shaking our heads ($40 for this?!).

Ken Pahlow is one of a handful of Oregon winemakers who truly get Chardonnay. His self-described style is "classic," unquestionably more Burgundy than California. The 2015 LCV Chard is aromatic, mouthwatering, and fresh with a perfect feel to it—the texture and weight makes it glide through your senses.

2012 vintage note:

This might as well have "drink me" on the label. Honeysuckle and citrus waft from the glass leading to a generous body of white peach and a polished, mineral finish. - Andy

The 2012 vintage is 20% Bieze Vineyard, Eola-Amity Hills AVA; 80% Freedom Hill Vineyard, Willamette Valley AVA.