Domaine Drouhin Oregon, Cuvée Arthur Chardonnay, Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA 2016

Named after Véronique's son Arthur and grown in the deep, volcanic Jory soils of the Dundee Hills. Slight smoky aromas envelope hazelnut and ripe stone fruit while a scented, floral overtone sets an unusual accent. The palate shows richness and freshness in equal measure and the restrained use of oak (about 10% new) allows the generous fruit to shine. There is warmth but the freshness, preserved by partial fermentation in stainless steel, gives the richness good definition.