2019 Anvil by Forgeron Chardonnay, French Creek
Our French Creek Vineyard Chardonnay offers beautiful balance between oak, fruit, and acidity. This wine excites us every year and once it comes into the winery it is always one of our finest looking lots. In 2019 we harvested when the sugars were just right and the acids still nicely present. The result is a complete wine with tons of complexity, balance and fresh, lively acidity.
An energetic straw color in the glass leads into an undeniable nose of lemon, honeysuckle, and grapefruit; characteristic of a Classic French Creek Vineyard Chardonnay. Tropical notes and a lively palate full of bright acidity linger on through the lengthy finish. A perfect pairing for a dish of fettucine with scallops and lemon-tarragon butter.
| Download Wine Notes |
| Vintage | 2019 |
| Varietal | Chardonnay |
| Varietal Composition | 100% Chardonnay |
| Appellation | Yakima Valley |
| Vineyard | French Creek |
| Harvest Date | 09/17/2019 |
| Acid | 6.5 g/L |
| PH | 3.52 |
| Aging | 9 months in 29% new French oak, 71% 1-year French oak barrels |
| Alcohol | 12.80% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
| Bottling Date | 07/18/2020 |
| Cases Produced | 365 |
92 points, James Suckling
Very mineral on the nose. Medium-bodied with that strong, stony-mineral character continuing onto the palate. Dried herbs, pears and lemons, too. Really interesting. Drink or hold.
- James Suckling
Planted in 1981 by Shad Hope and managed by Damon LaLonde, this vineyard continues to be a highly sought-after Chardonnay site, and is one of Washington State’s oldest producing Chardonnay vineyards. Great care is taken to be environmentally friendly while employing sustainable farming practices. The South-facing lower elevation, combined with a consistent westerly wind through the Yakima Valley cools the vines in the evening, allowing the fruit to maintain natural freshness and acidity. The soil is mostly silt loam with occasional spots of clay, caliche, basalt, and river rock. Older vines like these have deep roots and self-regulate, which provides consistency year after year. The richness imparted by old vines leads to the deep and complex flavors that marry gracefully with lively acidity.
