I recently reviewed the wines from Josh Bergström, an Oregon producer who’s made a shift in style over the years from big to balanced. It’s a transition that many producers are making in the new world, while alas it seems that some in the old world are still going the other way, picking later and ending up with less interesting wines.

This is a really nice introduction to Josh’s style. It’s the baby sister of Sigrid, and is made from a mix of estate and purchased fruit. Retail in the USA is $35, but at the moment you can get it from Roberson for £20, which is great value (normally, it seems US retail in dollars = UK price in pounds for wines from the USA).

Bergström Old Stones Chardonnay 2012 Willamette Valley, Oregon
13.8% alcohol. This has a lovely stony quality to the pear and peach fruit, together with a creamy texture and lovely fruit focus. There are some waxy, nutty notes and a hint of matchstick/snuffed candles adds interest. Multidimensional with a real range of flavours. 92/100 (£22 Roberson, but £20 this week in their 20% off all American wine sale)

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