2016 de Lancelotti Chardonnay Le Mie Figlie is among the wines we think of when people ask us about the top Chardonnays of Willamette Valley. We were impressed with de Lancellotti’s Chardonnays since our first visit to the vineyard.
On the Vine
Paul and Kendall de Lancellotti started de Lancelotti Family Vineyards in 2005. As with most wineries in Willamette Valley, they aren’t from a winemaking family, but they became one over time.
They practice holistic and biodynamic farming and source grapes from other growers with the same mindset. It’s a truly boutique winery, and Paul involved in every step from field to bottle.
De Lancelotti Chardonnay Le Mie Figlie 2016
Grapes for Le Mie Figlie Chardonnay came primarily from Chehalem Mountain AVA and a few select growers in the valley. It’s a blend of two clones, Wente 72 and Dijon 95, and a reason Paul called this Chardonnay Le Mie Figlie. It means my daughters in Italian, and Paul refers to his two daughters who inspire him every day.
Vintage
2016 was an easy vintage in Willamette Valley. It was third in the row warm year with an abundance of quality fruit and early harvest. So winemakers didn’t have to deal with the typical harvest challenges of this region.
In the Cellar
The wines are made in the shared facility and under the leadership of Robert Brittan, the veteran of the Willamette Valley, and a highly respected winemaker who consults several wineries in the area. We have a review of one of Robert’s own wines as well.
In the Glass
Le Mie Figlie opens up beautifully in the glass with aromas of orange blossom, chalky minerality, apple, mango peel, apricot, and, surprisingly, with a hint of dill.
On the palate, it starts with dried apricot, lemon, vanilla, beeswax, and a just a touch of oak.
Finish
It has a substantial body with a sweet cream texture that balanced with refreshing acidity and even has some light saltiness in the finish. We were impressed with 2016 Le Mie Figlie Chardonnay tasting it at the winery. A few years in a cellar only added complexity to this beauty.
Considering that it’s a boutique winery, it might be hard to find at your local store. But if you get a chance to try it, it’s a delight.