2020 Nicolas-Jay ‘Affinités’ Willamette Valley Chardonnay

WSI94 The 2020 Affinités Chardonnay opens with citrus blossom, lemon curd and quince. These seductive aromatics then give way to hints river rock, fresh rain and baked apples. Minerality and wet stone on the palate unfold to reveal flavors of lemon zest and tart candied apples. Tightly grained French oak nuance and fruit driven intensity add weight and power as the wine continues to drive forward. This impressive chardonnay is defined by its linear precision and consistent tension. There is a remarkable purity here, an electricity of bound energy that cannot be mistaken for anything other than a wine of significance and ageability. 20% new French oak. 440 cases made.