Adelsheim 2012 Caitlin’s Reserve Chardonnay (Willamette Valley)

Country: US / Caitlin’s Reserve
Variety: Chardonnay Oregon
Winery: Adelsheim / Willamette Valley

This is barrel-fermented in one-third new French oak. The fruit is perfectly ripe, clean and expansive, running from apple into light tropical flavors. There are light hints of honey and caramel, but, as usual, the fruit is front and center, and the barrels play a supporting role. Previous vintages of this wine have proven to be ageworthy, with a prime drinking window from 2020–2022.