Lingua Franca 'Bunker Hill' Willamette Valley Estate Chardonnay 2022

Winemaking

Lingua Franca is dedicated to producing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that reflect the distinctive character of the Willamette Valley. The winery emphasizes precision in the vineyard and a restrained hand in the cellar, allowing the terroir and varietal expression to take center stage rather than overshadowing them with heavy-handed winemaking.

Tasting Notes

This Chardonnay opens with inviting aromas of green apple and citrus, layered with subtle toasted oak and a whisper of minerality that speaks to the site's complexity. On the palate, bright acidity frames elegant stone fruit flavors and a creamy, refined texture that speaks to thoughtful oak aging without dominating the wine. The finish is clean and persistent, trailing off with notes of lemon zest and toasted hazelnut that linger beautifully on the finish.

Producer

Lingua Franca operates their estate vineyard in the Willamette Valley with meticulous attention to detail in both viticulture and winemaking. The winery is known for producing limited quantities of site-expressive wines that showcase the nuance and elegance possible in Oregon's cool-climate vineyards.

Terroir

The Willamette Valley's cool maritime climate and volcanic soils create ideal conditions for Chardonnay that balances richness with bright acidity. The Bunker Hill estate benefits from well-drained volcanic terrain and the valley's moderating influence, which extends the growing season and allows for optimal ripeness while preserving the wine's natural freshness and mineral character.

Food Pairings

Serve this alongside butter-poached lobster tail or sautéed scallops with brown butter and sage for an elegant pairing that honors the wine's creamy texture and stone fruit notes. For a more casual approach, try it with roasted chicken with herbed breadcrumb crust or a classic Cobb salad featuring avocado and crispy bacon—the acidity cuts through richness beautifully while the minerality complements the salad's fresh vegetables.