Review: Wines of Chemistry, 2019 Vintage
Chemistry is a new brand that marks a collaboration between the two wineries of Stoller and Chehalem.
The value-oriented Oregon-based producer has four wines in its stable — the usual suspects, really — and here we look at three releases from the 2019 vintage (all but the sparkling rose).
2019 Chemistry Pinot Gris Willamette Valley – Prototypical pinot gris, heavy with white flowers, honeysuckle, and a mix of tropical fruit notes that leans heaviest on mango. Fresh and gently sweet with moderated acidity, this is the textbook definition of a summer “porch pounder,” a crushable wine that sips easily on its own but which also pairs beautifully with anything that comes off the bbq. Best value. A- / $14
2019 Chemistry Chardonnay Willamette Valley – This is a lighter expression of chardonnay, notes of lemon, tangerine, and grapefruit (unusually) in the mix. Any oak influence here is minimal, with just a hint of vanilla on the palate that comes across with a gentle complementary quality that works well with the fruit up front. The finish is heavy on lemon peel and green apple, with a note of nougat lingering on the conclusion. Also best value. A- / $14
2019 Chemistry Pinot Noir Willamette Valley – While it’s a bit on the thin side, this wine offers classic pinot-driven notes of cherries and baking spice, giving the wine a gentle, spiced cider character. A more tart cranberry note emerges on the finish, with notes of orange peel and a gentle floral character. B / $20
2019 Chemistry Pinot Gris Willamette Valley
