Here are some of the highlights from my last day of wine tasting in the Willamette Valley.
I had the privilege of participating in a barrel room tasting at Morgen Long, which was led by the remarkable Chardonnay winemaker, Seth Morgen Long.
My reviews are as follows:
2022 Willamette Valley Chardonnay – Morgen Long
Varietal: Chardonnay
Tasting Notes: Citrus, lemon, mineral, stone, saline
Characteristics: Restrained yet highly acidic, structured, bright, clear, crisp, and elegant
Pairing: Oysters, ceviche, or goat cheese crostini
My Rating: 97 points
2022 Witness Tree Vineyard Chardonnay – Morgen Long
Varietal: Chardonnay
Tasting Notes: Slight hint of petroleum, mineral, citrus, lemon, vanilla, oak
Characteristics: Smooth, layered, and balanced
Pairing: Roast chicken with herbs, brie, or seafood risotto
My Rating: 94 points
2022 Temperance Hill Vineyard Chardonnay – Morgen Long
Varietal: Chardonnay
Tasting Notes: Vanilla, oak, fresh grass, lemon, citrus, green apple
Characteristics: Clean, bright, acidic, layered, smooth, beautifully light and refreshing
Pairing: Grilled halibut, citrus-dressed salad, or chèvre
My Rating: 98 points
2022 X Omni Vineyard Chardonnay – Morgen Long
Varietal: Chardonnay (with 0.2% Aligoté)
Tasting Notes: Slight vanilla, floral notes, mineral, oak, spice, lemon citrus, green apple
Characteristics: Smooth, round, acidic, bright, rich, clean, and mouthwatering
Pairing: Seared scallops, creamy pasta, or herbed pork loin
My Rating: 100 points
2021 Eola-Amity Hills Chardonnay – Morgen Long
Varietal: Chardonnay
Tasting Notes: Lemon/lime citrus, spice, stone fruit, green apple, oak, honeysuckle
Characteristics: Delicate yet textured and rich, vibrant acidity, beautiful finish
Pairing: Seared chicken breast, crab cakes, or triple cream cheese
My Rating: 99 points
2022 Eola-Amity Hills Chardonnay – Morgen Long
Varietal: Chardonnay
Tasting Notes: Slight petrol, oak, lemon/lime citrus, white flowers, mineral
Characteristics: Long finish, acidic, clean, and bright
Pairing: Citrus-dressed arugula salad, sushi, or poached cod
My Rating: 98+ points
2022 Pink Label Chardonnay – Morgen Long
Varietal: 96% Chardonnay, 4% Pinot Noir lees
Tasting Notes: Strawberry, orange/grapefruit citrus, cranberry, oak, mineral, stone fruit
Characteristics: Bright, crisp, acidic, juicy, dry, mid-plus acidity
Pairing: Charcuterie board, watermelon salad, or shrimp tacos
My Rating: 98+ points
