Morgen Long Wine, 2018 Seven Springs Vineyard Chardonnay

Seven Springs Vineyard is owned by Raj Parr and Sashi Moorman of Evening Land Vineyards. I am grateful to lease two blocks of non-irrigated Dijon clones growing in volcanic basalt soils between 500’-550’ in the South Block. This portion of Seven Springs faces southeast and was planted in 2012. The oldest vines at Seven Springs date back to 1984 – it is easily one of the most iconic vineyards in the Willamette Valley, and for good reason. Seven Springs is farmed organically by Jessica Cortell’s Vitis Terra outfit.

Light, bright yellow. An expansive, complex bouquet evokes fresh citrus and orchard fruits, oyster shell, vanilla and white flowers, and a hint of fennel emerges with air. Sappy, penetrating and lively on the palate, offering nervy Meyer lemon, pear, ginger and toasted brioche flavors that deepen and spread out slowly on the back half. Powerful and well-concentrated yet lithe, finishing with superb energy and lingering floral and mineral flourishes. 95pts

— Josh Raynolds-VINOUS