Chardonnay Q & A: Oregon Rekindles Chardonnay Debate with Second Annual Symposium
“I suspect Oregon won’t be reticent about its chardonnays for long.” So hypothesized Eric Asimov, wine writer for the New York Times, who argued a year ago that Oregon Chardonnays have begun to fall into step with some of the country’s best white wines after a stuttering start in the early 1970s.
In a thus-prophesied step away from reticence, Oregon is bringing back its state Chardonnay Symposium for a second year running. Producers of the varietal will gather at Red Ridge Farms on Saturday, May 4th to discuss progress as it has been made and possibilities for continued evolution in the coming year and years. As it draws increased coast-to-coast attention, the beaver state chardonnay scene has reached a crucial developmental crossroads where even small-scale producers have a big say in shaping the reputation of their wine scene for years to come.
So what is the signature style of Willamette Valley Chardonnay? What do producers envision as the future of Oregon Chardonnay, and how much do their visions overlap? What has driven producers through a rough start in the slow-nascent industry, and what continues to drive them today? A panel of 11 experts including budding and established artisan producers and wine writers will take the floor first to discuss these and other conceptual questions, as well as concrete technical topics like oak regiments and climactic influences. Panelists will be taking audience questions throughout. The interactive discussion will be followed by an expansive tasting of limited production Chardonnays.
$60 ticket price includes seminar notes, tasting and glass. Only 60 tickets are available, reservations required.
Saturday, May 4th || 1-3pm: Panel discussion. 3:30pm: Tasting. || Oregon Olive Mill, Red Ridge Farms, Dayton || Tickets: $60. (502) 864-8502
