Focused on high quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Ribbon Ridge AVA in the Willamette Valley, Chehalem is one of the pioneering wineries of Oregon, first planting their Ridgecrest Vineyard in 1980 by Chehalem Founder Harry Peterson-Nedry. March forward a decade later, their first Pinot Noir was created. Three years later Bill Stoller joined Harry in the winery operation and later planted a vineyard on his family farmlands at the southern end of the Dundee Hills. Two years later Chehalem purchased Corral Creek, the vineyard surrounding the winery, in 1995. It became the third estate vineyard sourced for Chehalem wines.
Earlier this year Bill Stoller purchased Harry’s stake in Chehalem. The new wines by Chehalem had marvelous finesse and tension. One of the top Rose wines out of Oregon, the 2017 Chehalem ‘Three Vineyard’ Rose (WWB, 90) sources from all three estate vineyards. This delightful wine is a serious, stand alone Rose that displays a dazzling minerality. Even better was the 2015 Chehalem ‘Three Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 91) which shows wonderful earthy and citrus notes and is downright delicious in the glass. Learn more about this great historic Oregon winery at chehalemwines.com Here are the great new release wines by Chehalem.
2017 Chehalem ‘Three Vineyard’ Rose- This outstanding wine shows a feminine streak. Red cherry, red currant and watermelon flavors beautifully mingle with bright acidity. The mouthfeel is excellent here. Drink 2018-2022- 90
2016 Chehalem ‘Inox’ Chardonnay- This light colored Chardonnay starts off with brioche, pear and starfruit on the nose. This shows fantastic length, richness and minerality. Roasted pineapple, vanilla cream and poached pear flavors impress. Drink 2018-2024- 91
2015 Chehalem ‘Three Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- This deep colored Pinot Noir begins with bright aromas of red currant, sandalwood and forest floor with a touch of blood orange. The palate his deep and lithe, showing a nice range of red fruits with citrus overtones. Delicious, with good acidity, this will cellar well into the next decade. Drink 2018-2028- 91