Domaine Serene
Evenstad Reserve Chardonnay Oregon
"The pinnacle of the Dundee Hills: a world-class Chardonnay that fuses the opulence of tropical fruit with the mineral sophistication of French oak."
The Art of Chardonnay in the Dundee Hills
The Evenstad Reserve Chardonnay is the flagship of Domaine Serene's mastery. Cultivated on the volcanic slopes of Oregon, this wine is born from a meticulous selection of Dijon clones. Its 14-month aging in French oak barrels, combined with constant bâtonnage, achieves an extraordinary balance: the electric freshness of the "Jory" soil framed by an unctuous and sophisticated texture that redefines the standard for American Chardonnay.
1. Identity Profile
- Winery: Domaine Serene.
- Origin: Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA.
- Varietal: 100% Chardonnay (Dijon Clones).
- Soils: Red volcanic clay (Jory).
- Aging: 14 months in French oak (30% new barrel).
- Volume: 750 ml.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Straw-yellow color with golden highlights. Shows notable density and absolute brilliance in the glass.
Nose: An exuberant profile dominated by fresh pineapple, guava, and melon. It evolves into notes of Golden apple, ripe pear, and a delicate hint of brioche and sweet spices.
Palate: The attack is generous and balanced. It possesses a vibrant acidity that cuts through a silky, enveloping texture. Its finish is long, elegant, and has a mineral persistence reminiscent of the great wines of Burgundy.
3. Style Analysis
BODY (UNCTUOUS) [ ● ● ● ● ○ ]
VIBRANT ACIDITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
COMPLEXITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
AGING POTENTIAL [ ● ● ● ● ○ ]
4. Pairing and Serving
Fine Dining: Lobster in brown butter (beurre noisette), scallop risotto, or herb-crusted seared salmon.
Local Pairings: Its balance of creaminess and freshness makes it the ideal companion for Chiles en Nogada.
Serving: Serve between 10°C and 12°C (50°F-54°F) to allow its aromatic layers to open up.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes it different from a California Chardonnay?
Unlike the sometimes overly oaky profile of California wines, Oregon's Evenstad Reserve seeks the elegance and acidity of a cool climate, integrating the oak in a more subtle and mineral way.
Is this a wine to drink now?
It is delicious in its youth due to its tropical fruit, but its true magic is revealed after 3-5 years in the bottle, where it gains a unique salinity and bready complexity.