Wine of the Day: Belle Pente Vineyard Chardonnay 2010 9-13-16

Belle Pente Vineyard Chardonnay, Yamhill-Carlton District 2010 750ML ($29.95) Buy Now: $26.60 special

Belle Pente Belle Pente Vineyard Chardonnay 2010

Belle Pente Belle Pente Vineyard Chardonnay 2010

As Oregon transitions from summer to fall, sunny days contrast with cool nights, colors enchant the eye, and a cornucopia of food presents itself on the table. This unique time of year finds its match in the 2010 Belle Pente Belle Pente Vineyard Chardonnay. Richly flavored with notes of apple and spice, white flowers, pear and a little butter (but very little new oak), this wine blends warm aromas and texture with refreshing acidity. At six years old, this Oregon Chardonnay is drinking at its prime. Consider having it alongside the last of the zucchini, the just-harvested corn, or the upcoming squash and pumpkins. Try it with poultry, pork, or, best, Fall Chinook. Or maybe drink it with nothing more than fresh bread and sheep cheese from the Valley, while savoring the panorama of harmless clouds, changing leaves, and geese on their way south.

For a riper parallel, try the 2012:

Belle Pente Vineyard Chardonnay, Yamhill-Carlton District 2012 750ML ($34.95) Buy Now: $29 special