The 2023 Beaux Frères Chardonnay Willamette Valley is a small-production Oregon Chardonnay from a longtime Ribbon Ridge estate known for biodynamic farming. While Beaux Frères built its reputation on Pinot Noir, several critics note a clear push to elevate the Chardonnay program. Decanter reports that winemaker Damien Lapuyade “wants to bring a focus to Beaux Frères in Chardonnay,” and details a method aimed at tension and precision: “full lees for 10 months,” “30% new oak,” use of “500L puncheons,” and “six months in steel on full solids before bottling.” Decanter also highlights the wine’s drive, calling it “brilliant tension,” with “acidity… the focus,” and flavors of “juicy Meyer lemon pulp” alongside “soaring minerality and seaspray.”

The top reviews are excellent. James Suckling scores it 97 points and calls it “so layered, textural, minerally and savory,” with “brilliant acidity,” “lemon zest,” and “chalky minerals,” plus “lemon curd, marzipan and hazelnuts” that “expand on the finish.” Decanter is close behind at 96 points, emphasizing that the élevage choices are intended to deliver “textural precision.”

Other critics broadly reinforce the same profile: citrus, orchard fruit, nutty complexity, and a saline/mineral edge, carried by fresh acidity. Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (94) finds “white peach and apricot, meringue, hazelnut, flint and honey,” and says the palate is “silky” with “powerful, savory flavors,” “balanced by vibrant acidity” and a “long, expressive finish.” Jeb Dunnuck (94) describes a “refreshing yet ripe feel” with “citrus candies, salted apples, fresh flowers,” and a “lovely, rounded feel,” suggesting it will drink well over the next “6-7 years.”

Vinous (93) underscores the contrast between “opulent textures” and “brisk acidity,” finishing with a “gentle saline mineral tinge.” Wine Spectator (93) sums up the style as “sleek yet generous and expressive,” adding that “797 cases” were made and recommending: “Drink now.”