From the Bunker Hill estate site in the south Salem Hills was planted in 1995 to some of the region's first Dijon clone Chardonnay. The brilliance of minerality and freshness is balanced wonderfully with a core of juicy citrus. Aromatics of dried chamomile, seaspray and lemon zest transition to a palate that holds juicy Meyer lemon pulp, tangerine rind and fresh-cut Granny Smith apples. Built for ageing, it is 67% whole cluster pressed, then barrel fermented for 11 months ageing on lees. It's a brilliant wine with serious precision and longevity.
95 points, Clive Pursehouse, Decanter (Aug 2024)
Estate bottled, the 2022 Chardonnay Bunker Hill is the counterpart to the Chardonnay Estate. It pours a bright pale yellow with a tinge of green and has a lovely incense of delicate toast lifting from the glass, followed by notes of white flowers, fresh green pear, and pleasing reduction. This wine comes from a site where the grapes get thicker skins from the wind, leading to firmer structure, and on the palate, this wine is medium to full-bodied, with a pithy, chalky texture. Drink 2024-2034.
94 points, Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck (Aug 2024)
The 2022 Chardonnay Bunker Hill is dreamy, blending confectionary spices with chamomile and mint before giving way to freshly sliced nectarines and lime zest. This is supple and round with depths of ripe apple and pear, further intensified by brisk acidity as crunchy mineral tones slowly saturate. A saline tinge lingers along with sweet tannins as the mouth waters for more through the long and wickedly fresh finale.
93+ points, Eric Guido, Vinous (Aug 2024)
Steely and sleek, yet buoyed by a rich midpalate of Meyer lemon and apricot flavors, laced with stony minerality and spicy lee elements that speed along the snappy finish. Drink now through 2026. 634 cases made.
93 points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator (Feb 2024)