It’s time for a “Top 5 in Dundee” list, and today we’re celebrating all things Chardonnay! One of the most versatile grapes grown in the Willamette Valley, Chardonnay has become an Oregonian favorite over the past decade, competing even with Pinot Noir as many visitors’ go-to varietal. That’s why The Dundee Hotel has decided to share with you our choices for the best of the best. Note though: if you’re hoping to taste at the wineries, make sure to book a reservation in advance because appointments fill up quickly!

Top 5 Chardonnays In Dundee:

This 2019 vintage combines the flavors of barrel spices, ripe peaches, and honey. The more you sit with it, the more you’ll pick up notes of wet stone and white peach, along with nuanced aromas of lemon curd, mint, and (one of our personal favorites) crème brûlée. This is the perfect choice for when you’re craving something rich and acidic but you don’t want to sacrifice freshness. The medium gold color makes it a welcome choice to celebrate the arrival of springtime and sunshine.

 Points awarded

95 Points- Owen Bargreen
94 Points- Wine Enthusiast *Editor’s Choice*
94 Points- International Wine Report
94 Points- Wine Advocate

The 2021 Dundee Reserve Chardonnay is the newest addition to Purple Hands Winery. It was specifically crafted to celebrate the Dundee Hills, one of the Valley’s most famous regions, and represents the wild and impressive range of local flavors and influences. You have two tasting options at Purple Hands: 1) the more exclusive vineyard experience at the Haakon/Lanai tasting room, or 2) the more laid-back, urban tasting room experience that’s walking distance from the hotel.

 Points awarded

93 Points- Wine Spectator
91 Points- Jamessuckling.com

This wine boasts the name “Willamette Valley” because it showcases this region’s range. Grapes from both estate vineyards are combined with those sourced from multiple neighboring top sites, and the result is a beautifully nuanced expression of the Willamette Valley as a whole. At Résonance Wines, grapes are picked by hand and vinified in separate tanks, block by block. This allows the winemaker to keep an extra close eye on the complexity of each Chardonnay vintage. 2021 showcases elements of lemon blossom, jasmine, orange peel, and vanilla. With its vibrant palate, fresh balance, and clean, crisp finish, you’ll soon be daydreaming about the warmer, sunnier days of summer.
 
Note: Résonance Wines recently opened at new tasting room in Dundee!

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94-96 Points- Wine Advocate

If you’re craving a crisp, mineral-driven wine with a hint of oak, look no further than Le Cadeau Vineyard’s Chardonnay. The 2021 vintage is produced from fruit grown in rocky volcanic basalt. The grapes are processed and fermented in stainless steel before eventually being transferred to barrels. After 14 months of aging in neutral French oak, the grapes are moved back to stainless steel for an additional 5 months. The clonal diversity, soil diversity, and sunlight “aspect” (which direction the vineyard slopes face) produce an unparalleled aromatic profile and palate complexity.

 Points awarded

93 Points- Wine & Spirits

Bergstrom Wines believes in meticulous attention to detail, and their Sigrid vintage is a representation of how much flavor Chardonnay can produce. This hay-colored wine is a citrus medley of key lime, yuzu, and lemon zest. Add elements of green banana, honeydew, and cardamom, and what results is an aromatic expression that finds balance with sweeter elements like flaky pie crust. Layered with oak spice and balanced acidity, this is a wine you’ll want to come back to over and over again. In addition to private wine tastings, Bergstrom offers unique experiences throughout the year, so make sure to contact them for details on specific events!

 Points awarded

95 Points- Vinous

* See something you’d like to try? Check out each winery’s website for orders and reservations, or ask for assistance at The Dundee Hotel. We are always happy to help with tastings, itineraries and up-to-date packages!