I love the outstanding micro-producers of Oregon. Aubaine focuses on single vineyard and estate only Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Founder Andy Lytle has a love of Burgundy which shows in his brand. He connected with the talented Isabelle Meunier to produce these beautiful wines. A native of Quebec, she studied winemaking and viticulture at the University of Dijon in Burgundy, as well as in New Zealand at Lincoln University. Following her eduction she worked at famed producers Felton Road in New Zealand, as well as Dominique Lafon of Domaine des Comtes Lafon.
Isabelle moved to the Willamette Valley in 2007 to work with Evening Land and had incredible success with that program. She later started her own winery venture, LAVINEA, an artisan production of distinctive single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. She serves as Aubaine winemaker and has crafted some gorgeous new wines. I adored the 2020 Aubaine ‘Athas’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which is viscous and mineral-driven, showing sensational aging potential. Learn more about this outstanding producer at aubainewine.com and here are my reviews of the new Aubaine wines.
2020 Aubaine ‘Anahata Vineyard’ Chardonnay- An outstanding new release, the 2020 Aubaine ‘Anahata Vineyard’ Chardonnay reveals kumquat blossom, green apple and sourdough bread tones on the nose. The palate is fresh and polished with a soft texture and seamless quality. Medium-bodied citrus and orchard fruits combine with shades of peat moss and wild mushroom flavors. Seriously good to consume now, enjoy over the next seven years. Drink 2022-2029- 92
2020 Aubaine ‘Athas’ Chardonnay- The 2020 ‘Athas’ opens with mango and ripe pineapple tones on the nose, with toasty oak and hints of lemon zest dusted marzipan. The palate is deep, layered and very fresh, producing a weightless effect once on the attack. Finishing very long with stony minerals and vanilla cream, this is a glorious effort that is just starting to hit its stride. Drink 2022-2033- 93