In 1987, Robert Drouhin was invited to participate in the first International Pinot Noir Celebration, and during that trip, he decided to purchase land in the Dundee Hills region of Oregon. Where only Christmas trees and wheat stood, the Drouhins began planting their first Oregon vineyards. At the same time, Robert nominated Véronique as the newly named winemaker of Domaine Drouhin Oregon (DDO), and her brother Philippe Drouhin took over the winemaking responsibilities. In 1988, DDO produced its first vintage from purchased grapes, and in 1989, he built the distinctive four-story gravity-fed winery. The vineyards are situated at an altitude of between 400 and 800 meters. The grapes here benefit from an excellent climate, resulting in exceptionally ripe and aromatic grapes.
The grapes were hand-picked and then whole-pressed. Half of the juice was then fermented in 20% new French oak barrels. The other half was fermented in stainless steel vats. After eight months, the two juices were combined and bottled. This combination gives the wine an excellent balance: round, rich, elegant, and pure. A beautiful bouquet on the nose of white flowers, citrus fruit, and the familiar mineral notes found in Burgundy wines. Beautiful acidity. These Chardonnay grapes come from the vineyard in Dundee Hills, Oregon.
