2022 Arterberry Maresh "Maresh Vineyard" Dundee Hills Chardonnay

The 2022 Arterberry Maresh Chardonnay from the Maresh Vineyard, with vines planted in 1983, reveals the benefit of slow ripening due to its unique exposure to the morning sun while avoiding the afternoon heat. Picked at the very end of October, this Chardonnay boasts a striking medium gold core with a neon yellow rim. Barrel fermented for a year in 100% new extra-tight-grain French oak before spending another 6 months in stainless steel, the wine exhibits complex aromas of ripe yellow apples, juicy yellow nectarines, and rich honeycomb, layered with mountain herbs, umami, and a hint of dusty country road. On the palate, this Chardonnay is mouthwatering, offering medium to full-bodied richness with vibrant acidity. The texture is luscious and decadent, truly evoking the sensation of drinking liquid gold. The wine’s balance and luxurious depth make it a memorable experience in every glass. Only 200 cases produced. Highly recommended and editor’s choice. (JY)

The 2022 growing season in the Willamette Valley was particularly long and cool, and growers worried about achieving full ripeness. Luckily, there was record-breaking heat in October, which provided the final push needed for ripening. “The 2022 vintage was perfect for this block simply because it seemed like it would never ripen,” second-generation winemaker Jim Maresh says of the Wente clone vines planted in 1983 at his family's Maresh Vineyard in the Dundee Hills. The vines sit at the top of a hill at around 750 feet on an east-facing slope, where they receive morning rather than afternoon sun. Grapes were finally harvested on October 26, and despite the wine's modest 12% alcohol, it's incredibly powerful and offers unparalleled concentration. Matured in 50% new French oak, the 2022 Chardonnay Maresh Vineyard features aromatics that shift continually in the glass. Brioche, hazelnut and matchstick complement a core of peach cobbler and honey-drizzled crème fraîche. The palate is just as luxurious, its satiny, mouth-coating flavors foiled by electric, linear acidity—a feature that sets it apart from the ripe, tropical versions sometimes found in California. Just 100 cases were made. (EB)