2024 Clos du Soleil Washington Series Chardonnay | 91pts

For the second year in a row, the Similkameen suffered a complete loss of grape crops, which led most producers to source grapes in the nearby Washington State. A beautiful source of Chardonnay was available and winemaker Michael Clarke helped with farming, as well as harvested the fruits himself, bringing it back to his team in the Similkameen. Highlights include bright acid, beautiful tropical fruits, a slight hint of vanilla, and soft peaches. Entirely fermented in French oak puncheons. I think that brings out the creme brulee on the finish, while also making this a complete and very balanced wine. There's great richness and bright energy in that wine. (Carl Boucher, Nov 2025).

334 cases made.

Winemaking Notes: 

The grapes for this wine were harvested by hand at peak maturity. The berries were immediately pressed after harvest, followed by a light cold-settling to just partially clarify the juice. It was fermented entirely in older French oak puncheons. The wines were aged on the lees, with weekly lees stirring, for 5 months prior to bottling. Minimal, gentle handling of the wine in every stage of the production process was the key to preserving and showcasing the natural beauty of the fruit.