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Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant, but best to open it half an hour before service. Located in Oregon and more precisely in the renowned Willamette Valley wine region, Lingua Franca is a prestigious winery that produces Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, following organic and biodynamic principles. The winery, created by Master Sommelier Larry Stone in 2012 with the purchase of the 150 acres of Janzen Farm, is now part of the Constellation group. The winemaking team is still led by Thomas Savre along with Burgundian consultant Dominique Lafon and Larry Stone remains involved with the company as a brand ambassador and consultant. The Chardonnay grapes are selected from several vineyards, primarily located on shallow volcanic soils, including those in the Eola-Amity Hills and near the estate’s Bunker Hill Estate Vineyard, in the Chehalem Mountains, Yamhill Carlton, and the Van Duzer Corridor. After spontaneous fermentation in the barrel, the wines rest on their lees for 6 months. Avni Chardonnay is a balanced and elegant wine that showcases the potential of this varietal in Oregon. It has a complex and broad aromatic profile, full of fruit notes (green apple, pear, and citrus) followed by mineral and white floral hints. The palate is round and soft, with lively acidity and a long, fresh, and fruity finish. It pairs well with roast chicken or turbot, and with fresh cheeses.