Chehalem INOX Chardonnay 2008

INOX® takes its name from the abbreviation of the French word for stainless steel, inoxydable. The wine was created differently from most Chardonnay you've had. We think we've succeeded in expressing the crisp, steely, and fruit-rich side that we love about some Old-World Chardonnays. What makes this possible is the use of exclusively Dijon clones, exceptionally well suited to Oregon's cool climate and exhibiting a richness that does not depend on oak. Entirely tank fermented, without malolactic fermentation or lees contact, INOX screams of the hallmarks of a cool climate-brightness, pinpoint fruit, and explosive aromas and flavors. We intend INOX for a full range of use, from hot weather chilling to elegant dinner complements.

Lovely white fruits, flowers, and spice, locked in a lushly rich Chardonnay, this INOX continues the long-lived, perfectly balanced food wine we've made now for seven vintages. There is jasmine, pear, mineral oil, kiwi, lime, vanilla, pineapple, fruit candies, and stone, suspended by a tension of ginger, minerality, and acid. The wine is both brightly acid-driven and richly emollient, finishing dry and bracing.