Dusted Valley 2022/23 Chardonnay

The fruit is 100% Chardonnay from Olsen Vineyard, located at an elevation of 1,110-1,350 feet in Yakima Valley. For the 2022 vintage, fermentation was in 70% neutral French oak, 19% concrete, 6% stainless steel and 5% new French oak, followed by 10 months on the lees. For the 2023 vintage, the oak program was 62% neutral French oak, 21% concrete, 12% new French oak and 5% stainless steel, with entire fruit from native yeast fermentations and 10 months on lees.

The wine opens with aromas of ripe Bosc pear, white peach, and melon, alongside subtle hints of vanilla bean and toasted almond. On the palate it is medium- to full-bodied, showing flavors of ripe apple, lemon curd, and a touch of gingerbread spice, supported by crisp acidity and a fine texture. The finish is balanced and lingering with mineral undercurrent and gentle oak presence.

This Chardonnay is approachable now, but it will show at its best from 2024 through 2030, with peak drinking between 2025 and 2029 as the oak and lees texture integrate with the fruit.