The 2021 Tan Fruit Oak Grove Chardonnay from Oregon's North Willamette Valley, specifically the Dundee Hills sub-appellation, is a noteworthy example of the region's Chardonnay offerings. Produced by Tan Fruit, this wine is characterized by its white color and is sealed with a traditional cork closure. The alcohol content stands at 13.0%.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate awarded this vintage an impressive score of 97. The review highlights the wine's "energetic and mineral-driven" nature, enhanced by its barrel fermentation and stainless steel finishing. The review describes the wine as opening with "streaks of matchstick" that transition to "red apples, yogurt, pie spice and lemon peel." The light-bodied palate is noted for its "silky texture" and "bright acidity," with a concentrated core of "ripe citrus" leading to a "very long, mineral-driven finish." The reviewer, EB, draws a parallel to Chablis, noting the wine's "salty, tangy character" which makes it "impossible to put down."
Vinous, which gave the wine a score of 91, describes it as "vividly fresh," with aromas of "crushed green apples, mint and wet stone." The palate is described as "electric," with "zesty acidity and mineral-tinged orchard fruit depths," finishing with "savory spice and hints of lime zest." The review also mentions that the wine is "potent, full of tension, yet incredibly fresh," having been refined for twelve months in barrel and six months in steel, according to Eric Guido.
James Suckling also provided a commendable review, scoring the Chardonnay at 95. The review praises the "seductive nose of green apples, white peaches, jasmine tea and plenty of wild herbs." The wine is described as "medium-bodied with a well-rounded texture and profile," exhibiting "fresh acidity" that leads into a "flavorful, succulent finish." The wine is described as "steely and fresh," with an option to either drink now or hold for future enjoyment.
Overall, the 2021 Tan Fruit Oak Grove Chardonnay is a highly acclaimed wine, noted for its fresh acidity, mineral-driven character, and complex flavor profile, with particularly excellent reviews from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate and James Suckling.