At the turn of the 20th century, Oregon Chardonnay turned the corner in improving its quality. 2017 Wits End by Roco Winery is an example when careful viticultural and winemaking choices result in the wine that’s hard to resist.
While many wineries produce Chardonnay in Oregon and with Willamette Valley fruit in particular and many charge top dollar for it. Sometimes we surprised by the disconnect between what’s in the glass and on the price tag. With an array of choices, it might be challenging for a wine lover to find genuinely high-quality Chardonnay. We tasted many of them, and we might help.
So what makes 2017 Roco Wits End Chardonnay an exceptional wine?
2017 Roco Wits End Chardonnay
On the Vine
Whether we have the patience or not, all good things take time to make. Rollin Soles, the winemaker, purchased Wit’s End plot of land on the southwestern slope of Chehalem Mountain in Willamette Valley back in 1987 but planted the first Chardonnay vines 26 years later.
Some might ask why to wait so long? We say Rollin must know something that we don’t. He leveraged 30 years of winemaking experience and extensive knowledge of Willamette Valley terroir to pick the proper site and right Chardonnay clone. Apparently, it worked.
Vintage
2017 was another easy vintage in comparison to the typical challenges winemakers face in Willamette Valley. It was a warm season with an abundance of quality fruit and early harvest. Roco harvested Witt’s End Chardonnay on September 9th, weeks earlier than expected.
In the Cellar
The grapes were handpicked and cooled down to 38°F before being pressed and sent for fermentation in neutral oak barrels. Following the malolactic fermentation, the young wine was aged for a minimum of five months in the mix of new and used French oak barrels.
Aromas
The aromas of 2017 Wits End Chardonnay reflect the ripe vintage. It’s an enticing bouquet of lemon, fresh butter, some nuttiness, and hint of caramel.
Flavors
On the palate, flavors of apricot, sweet cream, and a touch of minerality. Wit’s End has a substantial body, and a feels like this Chardonnay is almost crossing over to California style.
Conclusion
Rollin’s winemaking and viticultural skills shine in this wine. He was able to tame and improve upon Willamette Valley terroir. With a careful selection of site and clones and restrained winemaking, he created a well-balanced and delicious Chardonnay.
P.S. If you have a chance, compare it to Roco Knudsen Chardonnay.