Morgen Long Willamette Valley Chardonnay

Morgen Long is one of Oregon's most distinctive Chardonnay specialists, founded by winemaker Seth Morgen Long with a singular ambition: to explore the remarkable potential of Chardonnay throughout the Willamette Valley. Rather than dividing his attention among multiple grape varieties, Seth has dedicated his work to understanding how different vineyard sites, soils and growing conditions influence Chardonnay's expression. His wines have earned a reputation for their precision, texture and mineral character, offering a compelling perspective on one of Oregon's most exciting varieties.

The 2024 Willamette Valley Chardonnay is assembled from eleven vineyards planted between 1984 and 2020, including celebrated sites such as Shea, Koosah, Durant, X Omni and X Novo. These vineyards span different elevations, exposures and soil types, creating a wine that captures the diversity of the region. Harvested by hand over a full month, the fruit underwent spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts. The wine matured for twelve months in French oak barrels and puncheons, followed by an additional six months on its lees in stainless steel. It was bottled without fining or filtration, preserving its natural texture and complexity.

The 2024 is beautifully expressive, revealing aromas of lemon oil, salted lime, fresh ginger blossoms and white flowers, followed by pear, apricot and subtle smoky mineral notes. The palate combines impressive concentration with an almost weightless texture, carried by vibrant acidity and a long, saline finish. There is depth without heaviness and richness without excessive oak. We selected this wine because it demonstrates how exciting Oregon Chardonnay has become, combining thoughtful vineyard sourcing, meticulous cellar work and a distinctly mineral-driven style that rewards both immediate enjoyment and patient cellaring.