The new releases include one white wine, the 2009 Chardonnay Sigrid which is a selection of the top 10 barrels in the cellar out of 100. Complex mineral, pear, hazel nut, and white peach aromas inform the nose of a rich, nicely proportioned Chardonnay. In the glass tropical and butterscotch flavors emerge buttressed by a firm acid structure leading to a lengthy, pure finish. It can be approached now but has the material to evolve for 1-2 years and drink well for another 6-7. Josh Bergstrom now has 5 estate vineyards encompassing 85 acres in 5 AVAs. He has decided to stop working with Riesling (despite the high quality) and focus entirely on Chardonnay in his white wine program.Tel. (503) 554-0463; www.bergstromwinery.com

The 2008 Chardonnay Sigrid is a blend sourced from 5 vineyards. It was fermented with both native and Burgundian yeasts, barrel-fermented in both new and seasoned oak, and remained in cask from 12-18 months. Medium-straw colored, it offers up an already complex perfume of minerals, floral notes, toasted nuts, pear, apple, and baking spices. Round and creamy on the palate, this supple offering has outstanding volume and grip, great focus, and a lengthy, pure finish. Give it 2-3 years of additional bottle age and drink it from 2012 to 2018. Josh Bergstrom continues to progress toward his goal of working entirely with estate-grown Pinot Noir. Gone are single vineyard cuvees from the Durant, Nysa, and Hyland Vineyards. He has also become increasingly focused on Chardonnay believing that Willamette Valley is capable of producing world-class wines from this varietal.www.bergstromwinery.com

Josh Bergstrom is a believer in Willamette Valley Chardonnay. His 2007 Sigrid Chardonnay was a selection of the top 12 barrels (out of 120) in the cellar. A blend from several vineyards, it offers up an outstanding nose of pain grille, mineral, white peach, pear, and a hint of tropical aromas. Ripe, round, and mouth-coating, this creamy-textured Chardonnay is well-balanced and lengthy. It should drink well for another 6 years if not longer. If you want an unvarnished opinion about the state of affairs in Willamette Valley, Josh Bergstrom is someone who will tell it straight. His 2007s are uniformly successful as well as reflective of what the vintage provided.