2019 Suzor Chardonnay The Sunflower Willamette Valley

Suzor is one of the most exciting boutique projects in the Willamette Valley. Founded by the husband-and-wife duo of Greg McLellan and Melissa Rondeau, this tiny micro-winery is built on a single obsession: applying strict, low-intervention winemaking techniques to premier, cool-climate Oregon fruit.

"The Sunflower"—named in homage to the breathtaking fields surrounding Greg's grandparents' home in the Loire Valley—is a masterclass in this philosophy. The Chardonnay fruit is sourced from older, sustainably farmed vines situated at roughly 700 feet of elevation, which ensures a long, even ripening season and maintains vibrant natural acidity. In the cellar, the juice undergoes a native yeast fermentation in 25% new French barriques, followed by 11 months of aging with occasional lees stirring. Showcasing undeniable minerality and linear acidity, this is a Chardonnay that perfectly bridges the richness of the West Coast with the taut tension of white Burgundy.

Because total production for this cuvée is incredibly small—roughly 100 cases—bottles from Suzor rarely make it out of the Pacific Northwest. Landing this kind of micro-allocation at this price point is a massive win for Oregon wine collectors. Secure your allocation before it vanishes.