Nicolas-Jay 2021 Chardonnay “Spirit Hill

N i c o l a s - J a y 2 0 2 1 C h a r d o n n a y “ S p i r i t H i l l

July 11, 2024

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Chardonnay, Oregon, Red Wine, Reviews

Brand: Nicolas-Jay

The Nicolas-Jay 2021 Chardonnay “Spirit Hill” is a shining example of the collaborative winemaking expertise of Jean-Nicolas Méo and Jay Boberg. My journey with Nicolas-Jay wines began with a visit to their serene estate in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, where the seamless blend of Old World and New World techniques captivated me. The 2021 vintage of “Spirit Hill” Chardonnay embodies the meticulous craftsmanship and passion that Jean-Nicolas and Jay pour into every bottle, offering a versatile and elegant experience that highlights the distinctive terroir of the Eola-Amity Hills. We were hosted by the wonderful Becca and she introduced us to one of the best Chardonnays ever. Limited quantities so we could only buy two bottles. Picture a crisp Chablis from France and A nice buttery Chardonnay from Napa Valley. It blends both worlds in such a way it made it a memorable tasting.

Sip

High Acidity: Bright, crisp, and refreshing, with a sharp, tangy taste that is immediately noticeable on the palate.
Medium-Bodied: Has more weight and presence than light-bodied wines but is not as rich or heavy as full-bodied wines.
Medium Finish: The flavors and sensations linger for a moderate amount of time, usually around 10-30 seconds after swallowing.
Aroma: Citrus, Apricot, Tropical
Tastes Like: Citrus, Apricot, Tropical, and subtle buttery & minerality notes.

Savor

Pairs with: The Nicolas-Jay 2021 Chardonnay “Spirit Hill,” with its elegant, fruity, and complex characteristics, can be paired with a variety of dishes to create a delightful dining experience. Here are some expanded suggestions:

Seafood: Grilled shrimp, seared scallops, or a buttery lobster tail pair wonderfully with this Chardonnay. The wine’s citrus notes and balanced acidity complement the delicate flavors of the seafood.
Poultry: Herb-roasted chicken or turkey breast are excellent choices. The wine’s subtle minerality and bright fruit flavors enhance the savory, aromatic qualities of the poultry dishes.
Mushroom Dishes: Enjoy this Chardonnay with creamy mushroom risotto, stuffed mushrooms, or a wild mushroom tart. The wine’s crisp acidity and subtle earthy notes harmonize beautifully with the umami flavors of the mushrooms.
Cheese and Charcuterie: The wine’s complex aromas and balanced acidity make it a perfect pairing for a variety of cheeses (e.g., Brie, Camembert, or Havarti) and light charcuterie. Its fruitiness and acidity cut through the richness of the cheese and meats.
Pasta Dishes: Complement creamy pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo or lighter dishes like lemony pasta primavera with a glass of Nicolas-Jay Chardonnay. The wine’s bright acidity and citrus notes balance the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
Vegetable Dishes: Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers, can be enhanced by the wine’s vibrant fruit flavors and subtle spice notes. The wine’s acidity and complexity add depth to the vegetable dishes.
Lean Meats: Pork tenderloin or veal medallions are wonderful with this Chardonnay. The wine’s refined texture and delicate fruit profile complement the tenderness and subtle flavors of these lean meats, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Simplify

Vintage: 2021
Varietal: Chardonnay
Region: Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Country: USA
ABV: 13.0%
Price & Store: $85.00 Nicolas-Jay
Occasion: Romantic/Casual

Conclusion

The Nicolas-Jay 2021 Chardonnay “Spirit Hill” is more than just a wine; it’s a journey through the nuances of Oregon’s terroir, guided by the combined expertise of its winemakers. It has become a quick favorite chardonnay for me, saving for special occasions. With Nicolas-Jay’s exceptional lineup of wines, there’s a world of flavors waiting to be explored. This wine, with a Vino-Rater score of 95, is not just a bottle on the shelf but a memorable part of my wine journey.