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Today in Wine News: Oregon’s Willamette Valley has long been a destination for premium American Pinot Noir, but climate change and consumer demands have started shifting the regional focus towards Chardonnay. Winemakers say that they’ve replanted some of their prized Pinot Noir vines with Chardonnay, and demand for the grape has kept up with the new plantings.
Has Chardonnay become the new “it grape” in Willamette Valley? Why is this American wine region starting to double down on its investment in a grape that grows well in many different climates? Keep listening to learn what makes Willamette Valley Chardonnay different from other iterations you’ve tasted, and why this delicious wine is on its way to becoming a benchmark grape and region pairing right alongside Burgundy.
In other news, here are some additional highlights from the week:
Jayson Woodbridge, the winemaker behind Hundred Acre and Fortunate Son, has bought Madrigal Family Winery in Calistoga.
“Why a cult Cabernet winemaker just bought an under-the-radar Napa winery” (Jess Lander/SF Chronicle)
Gigondas is celebrating the release of its first white wines.
“In White as in Red, Domaine Santa Duc Unveils the New Vintage of Its Clos in Gigondas: Le Clos Des Hospices” (Press Release/Wine Industry Advisor)
The Michelin Guide has announced 13 California restaurants added to their Recommended list.
“These 5 Bay Area Restaurants Just Got Added to the Michelin Guide” (Dianne de Guzman/Eater)
The Wine Press: Not Your Mama's Chardonnay