Think Oregon is only about Pinot Noir? Think again—this is a world-class Chardonnay from Jim Maresh (pronounced MAIR-ish) of Arterberry Maresh that completely rewrites the script. We tasted this 97-point statement maker on Wednesday and immediately bumped it to the front of our schedule because it blew us away. Striking a flawless yin-and-yang balance, its rich, opulent fruit is cut with a mouthwatering mineral energy that rivals top-flight Corton-Charlemagne, showing exactly why local vintners are talking way more about Chardonnay these days than Pinot.

Arterberry Maresh has graced our platform many times over the years for their award winning estate Pinot , but there is tremendous buzz with the estate Chardonnay amongst local insiders and Willamette vintners. This tiny-production allocation is sourced from a prized, high-elevation block of own-rooted vines planted in iron-rich Jory volcanic soils back in 1983. At 43 years old, these historic vines provide a deep, old-vine resonance you simply cannot replicate with younger roots.

Jim utilizes 100% Wente clone—the exact same heritage selection that put icons like Kistler and DuMOL at the top of the California pyramid. By picking intentionally early, Jim captures a brilliant, crisp "crunchiness" and Burgundian precision that balances the wine's natural texture, earning a huge 97-point score from Vinous Media. This pristine allocation is just entering its prime but possesses the backbone to cellar beautifully for 10 to 15 years.

Critical Acclaim:

97 Points, Vinous Media:

“The 2023 Chardonnay Maresh Vineyard seduces with a burst of crushed flint stones, dusty sage, nectarine and gingery spice. Its textures are otherworldly, nearly oily yet sleek, with a sour citrus nervousness that excites the palate as opulently ripe apricot settles on the senses. Despite its weight and intensity, this 2023 Chardonnay leaves the palate reeling with tension, salty and lime intense, with a strong mineral resonance that adds lasting crunchiness. Gorgeous today yet balanced for a long evolution.”