The Journey of Oregon Chardonnay
Oregon Chardonnay has seen an extraordinary transformation over the decades, evolving from a varietal of unrealized potential to a global symbol of elegance and quality. Its journey is one of challenges met with innovation, of risks taken by visionary winemakers, and of a region’s commitment to excellence. At Knudsen Vineyards, we honor this legacy with our Chardonnay vines, meticulously cultivated from French Dijon clones 76, 95, and 96—an homage to the precision and care that define every bottle of Oregon Chardonnay today.
The Early Days: Pioneering Chardonnay in Oregon
The story of Oregon Chardonnay begins with ambition. In the 1960s and 70s, as Oregon established itself as a promising region for Pinot Noir, a handful of pioneering winemakers turned their attention to Chardonnay. Encouraged by the success of Burgundy’s famed Chardonnays, they believed Oregon’s cool climate could support the varietal’s cultivation. At Knudsen Vineyards we planted 20 acres of Chardonnay in our first planting during 1972-74.
However, early efforts met with frustration. Many of the initial plantings used California clones, such as the Wente clone, which were better suited to California’s hotter, drier climate. In Oregon’s cooler, wetter conditions, these vines struggled to ripen fully, producing wines that were lean, green, and lacking complexity.
Despite these setbacks, winemakers persisted, experimenting with vineyard locations and adapting viticultural techniques. At Knudsen Vineyards, these efforts were driven by a steadfast belief in the potential of Oregon Chardonnay, even as others in the region began replacing their vines with different varietals.
By the mid-1990s, Chardonnay accounted for 22% of Oregon’s vineyard plantings, but the results were inconsistent. Many wines lacked the charm and refinement needed to gain widespread acclaim. Between 2000 and 2005, disheartened by the challenges, growers removed 44% of Oregon’s Chardonnay acreage. For a time, it seemed the varietal might disappear from Oregon’s landscape.
The Turning Point: Learning from Burgundy
The turnaround began with a realization: Oregon’s similarities to Burgundy went far deeper than a shared love for Pinot Noir. Positioned at a similar latitude, both regions benefit from cool climates that are ideal for growing Chardonnay with bright acidity, layered complexity, and an unmistakable sense of place.
The introduction of French Dijon clones in the 1980s proved to be a watershed moment. These clones, including 76, 95, and 96, ripened earlier and thrived in Oregon’s climate, producing wines with vibrant flavors, balanced acidity, and refined textures. Knudsen Vineyards was among the early adopters, planting these clones in our Dundee Hills vineyard, where they flourish in Jory soils with ideal sun exposure.
Burgundian winemakers played an instrumental role in this transformation. Dominique Lafon, renowned for his work in Burgundy, brought his expertise to Oregon with Evening Land, producing Chardonnay that quickly gained international recognition. Similarly, Veronique Boss-Drouhin of Domaine Drouhin showcased the elegance and minerality possible with Oregon Chardonnay, setting a new standard for quality. These early successes demonstrated that, with the right clones and a deep understanding of terroir, Oregon could produce world-class Chardonnay.
Innovation in the Vineyard and Cellar
Oregon’s winemakers are known for their pioneering spirit, and the evolution of Chardonnay reflects their unwavering commitment to innovation. Sustainable farming practices have become a cornerstone of vineyard management, with many wineries—including Knudsen Vineyards—embracing organic methods and water conservation to enhance the health of the land and vines.
In the cellar, winemakers have honed techniques to amplify the natural beauty of the fruit. Sur lie aging, which involves aging wine on its lees, adds texture and complexity. Partial malolactic fermentation, carefully controlled, brings a creamy mouthfeel without sacrificing freshness. Neutral oak barrels are often chosen to complement the wine’s fruit and mineral-driven character without overwhelming it.
At Knudsen Vineyards, these approaches allow us to craft Chardonnays that are both a reflection of our unique terroir and a tribute to the craftsmanship that defines Oregon winemaking.
A Renaissance for Oregon Chardonnay
The 2014 vintage marked a major milestone in the resurgence of Oregon Chardonnay. Following a challenging, damp 2013 vintage, 2014 delivered wines of exceptional quality. Both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir thrived that year, with vibrant flavors and balanced structures that captured the attention of wine lovers and critics alike.
The success of 2014 spurred renewed interest in Chardonnay, leading to a doubling of planted acreage over the next five years. Today, the varietal is celebrated for its ability to balance vivid flavors with a mouthwatering, razor-sharp acidity. As Wine Spectator’s Harvey Steiman noted, Oregon Chardonnay has developed a signature style that is captivating the wine world.
Beyond the still wines, Oregon winemakers are exploring new expressions of Chardonnay, including sparkling wines and amphora-aged variations. This experimentation reflects a vibrant and evolving wine community, one that is continually pushing the boundaries of what Oregon Chardonnay can achieve.
A Bright Future for Oregon Chardonnay
The evolution of Oregon Chardonnay is a testament to the vision and perseverance of its pioneers and the innovative spirit of today’s winemakers. At Knudsen Vineyards, we are proud to be part of this legacy, crafting Chardonnay that embodies the elegance, complexity, and authenticity of Oregon’s cool climate.
As we look to the future, we see endless possibilities. From the vineyard to the glass, Oregon Chardonnay continues to tell a story of resilience, innovation, and artistry. With each vintage, we are reminded that the journey of this remarkable varietal is only just beginning—and its brightest chapters are yet to come.
