Nicolas Jay : Affinités Chardonnay 2023

The freshness and precision of a white wine from the Willamette Valley

The estate

The Nicolas Jay winery was born from the friendship between Burgundy winemaker Jean-Nicolas Méo and American music producer Jay Boberg.

Located in Oregon’s North Willamette Valley, the estate oversees a terroir largely composed of old vines. In addition, partnerships with growers farming their vineyards organically and biodynamically ensure a supply of high-quality grapes.

Vineyard

"Affinités" by Nicolas Jay is a Willamette Valley wine crafted from a rigorous selection of vineyards including Spirit Hill, Von Oehsen, Pearlstad, L’Angolo, and Bishop Creek.

Vintage

The year 2023 enjoyed exceptional conditions, especially compared to previous vintages. Abundant winter precipitation provided the vines with the energy needed for the season. A cool, wet spring delayed flowering by a week compared to the usual mid-April timing. Warm summer temperatures promoted growth, ensuring vine health and abundance. Light rains just before harvest helped achieve ripeness and condensed the picking window.

Grape variety

Chardonnay (100%).

Tasting characteristics and advice for the Affinités Chardonnay 2023 by Nicolas Jay

Tasting

Nose
Fragrances of lemon blossom and green melon rise from the glass, followed by notes of sweet tangerine zest and grain, both exotic and intriguing.

Palate
On the palate, apricot pulp and Granny Smith apple mingle with a stone-fruit minerality, creating both power and tension. The mid-palate is broad and expansive, while a streak of crisp acidity leads to a bright, clean finish.