Holocene, Aureolin, Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills, Oregon, 2024

 Overview of the Brand
By now, everyone knows that the Willamette Valley is an amazing place to grow Pinot Noir. When I relocated from Napa Valley to partner up with Force Majeure Vineyards, I knew I also wanted to start a project where I could focus attention on a varietal and growing region that I loved. Part of the excitement of being in the Pacific Northwest is the ability to have access to so many amazing vineyards and so much diversity, along with the opportunity to push boundaries and try new things – something that is becoming increasingly difficult in other growing regions. 

We partner up with a few very small, diverse and amazing vineyards in the Willamette Valley, sourcing fruit from these dry-farmed sites that emphasize low yields, sustainable practices and produce outstanding fruit.

The wines are crafted in the same way I have been making wine since I was carrying it out at Bryant Family Vineyard in the Napa Valley — utilizing very low-impact, non-industrial techniques, native yeasts, little extraction and little new oak, and never filtering or fining. This allows a real sense of place to show through in the wines that is often dimmed when too much manipulation is undertaken.

Sustainable.

Winemaker
Todd Alexander

Grape / Blend
100% Chardonnay

Origin
Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
The 2024 Aureolin Chardonnay is a layered and focused wine that balances structure with precision. Fermented with native yeast and aged for nine months in a mix of stainless steel, neutral oak, and 50% new oak—including traditional feuillettes—it offers a dynamic interplay of texture and freshness. No SO₂ was added at crush, allowing the wine to fully express its site and vintage. Citrus oils, white florals, and subtle spice unfold over a taut mineral core. 164 cases produced.

97 Points - Owen Bargreen
A world-class wine, the 2024 Holocene ‘Aureolin’ Chardonnay was sourced from the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. Made in a reductive style, this was stored for 9 months in 50% new oak, stainless and neutral oak, including feuillettes. Freshly cut limes and salted nectarine skin fill the palate alongside suggestions of baking spice-laced pastry crust and crushed seashells on the palate. Very salty and savory, with a seamless texture, this glides throughout the drinking experience. A total beauty, enjoy now and over the next ten-plus years. Drink 2025-2037

Product size: 750ml