Willamette Valley Vineyards Estate Chardonnay, 2012

I knew this wine might be past its prime, when I bid on it (at a good price). But I also knew that Oregon Chardonnays have the acidity to age well for 10 years or more, and I wanted to test the outside limits. Yes, it is past its prime, but, in my view, it has much more to offer than 90% of the Chardonnays on the shelves for current drinking.

Deep gold, bright but showing its age. Lemon curd and green apples; similar profile to other WVV Chardonnays I have had but not as lively or fresh as the 2022 Dijon Clone. Develops some nice biscuity tones as it warms and airs.