One of the premier sparkling wine producers, Argyle is one of the great spots to visit in the heart of Dundee, Oregon, right off Highway 99. I get nostalgic when I visit the winery and I was there earlier in the spring for a series of great tastings. I first tasted there 20 years ago long before they designed their world class winery and tasting room.
I had such a good time this spring with a blending trial led by Nate Klostermann. Nate has been crafting incredible wines since taking over for Oregon wine legend Rollin Soles. Nate does a killer job with his still wines and I adored the new 2018 Argyle ‘Vintage Brut’ Sparkling Wine (OB, 92) which is an amazing value. Even better is the stunning 2012 Argyle ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine (OB, 95) which is up there with the finest sparkling wines you will taste in the Pacific Northwest Learn more about these beautiful wines at http://www.argylewinery.com Here are the outstanding new sparkling wine releases by Argyle.
2018 Argyle ‘Vintage Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The 2018 ‘Vintage Brut’ was mostly stored in stainless steel (80%) before disgorgement and was entirely sourced from the Knudsen Vineyard in the Dundee Hills. A blend of mostly Chardonnay (52%) and Pinot Noir (43%) with the remainder Pinot Meunier, this was given 3G/L dosage. This shows a soft mousse with lovely salty character on the palate. Ripe pear with Marcona almond and suggestions of lime zest all combine brilliantly, finishing very long with stony minerals. Plenty of this beauty to go around — 28,650 cases — so enjoy while it lasts. Drink 2022-2029- 92
2019 Argyle ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- Very racy and showing great finesse, the 100% Chardonnay 2019 Argyle ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine was given 1.5G/L dosage and utilizes Dijon clonal selection 76, 95 and 96. Coming from the Lone Star, Spirit Hill, Knudsena and Giving Tree Vineyards, this offers lemon and lime rind flavors alongside wet granite, green papaya and shades of kumquat on the palate. A knockout with its mouth-watering acidity, this is very Savart meets Oregon in its electricity. Enjoy now and over the next decade. Drink 2022-2032- 93
2012 Argyle ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine- Truly one of the greats, not only in Oregon but in North America, the incredible new 2012 Argyle ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine is a masterclass by winemaker Nate Klostermans. Coming from this very classic vintage, the 2012 ‘Extended Tirage’ spent ten years on the lees before disgorgement. A blend of 60% PInot Noir with the reminder Chardonnay, this golden-hued wine offers lychee and ripe pineapple tones on the nose, with cardamom dusted brioche and suggestions of lemon meringue on the nose. The palate is full and ripe once on the mouth, with a silky mousse that makes this very seamless. Finishing very long with rich orchard and citrus fruits, and copious minerals, this is delicious wine to consume now and over the next ten years. Drink 2022-2032- 95