The 2019 Chardonnay The Eyrie, matured in just 11.5% new oak, is expressive and singular, offering an alluring dynamic of ripe, spicy fruit and savory bass tones. A core of baked apple fruit is accented by scents of mushroom powder, flint, fallen leaves and cinnamon on the nose, shifting continually as it spends time in the glass. The medium-bodied palate is incredibly concentrated yet boasts focused acidity that drives its generous flavors into a long, flinty finish.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 98 RPSalted-caramel and some dried-lemon and apple-turnover aromas follow through to a full body with a creamy, dried-fruit finish. Tangy and edgy. Serious. Intellectual. Drink or hold.James Suckling | 95 JSFor 2019, the estate’s fiftieth pick, Jason Lett included more than 80 percent of what the estate calls the Draper selection clone, from California mass selections. One of a kind, to be sure, no Oregon chardonnay is like this one, combining a rich fullness of flavor and idiosyncratic savor that feels like it can only happen from these vines and on this Dundee Hills estate. It smells rich, of pineapple and candied ginger, pear and a hint of dried apricot. And yet there is such tension on the palate you’ll forget notions of richness and focus on the wine’s inimitable texture, layered and brimming with complex flavors. Fascinating now, it should age beautifully.Wine & Spirits Magazine | 95 W&S
