2020 Aubaine Athas Review

Before I dive into the 2020 Aubaine Athas from the Anahata Vineyard Chardonnay, I have to call out the man behind the label, Andy Lytle. When I first met Andy face to face in November last year, I was already impressed by how generous and humble he was via several email messages exchanged back and forth. In talking with him, it was incredible to see how down-to-earth and genuine he is. I was smoothing out the podcast concept in November, but I knew I wanted to interview Andy. When I asked him if he was interested in being interviewed, without a micro-second hesitation, he said, “Yes!” Months after the interview, I am still inspired by his story, passion, and desire to leave a legacy. As we dive into the wine, I want to highlight a couple of fun tidbits. Aubaine is French for Windfall. Andy also has a vineyard called Windfall. Athas is Irish for Joy. Andy also has a secluded oasis in the Eola Amity Hills called At The Joy you can reserve for stellar getaways. Anahata is a heart chakra. I bring all of this to your attention because everything Andy does runs deep but with a focus on the human spirit and joy! The wine itself, wow! Isabelle Meunier is the winemaker, and she knocks it out of the ballpark! In the glass, there is a vibrant yellow color transfixing you on a nose where you get the slightest classic Chardonnay characteristics, but you get the sense there is something more to it. On entry, there is nothing but a smooth transition to your mid-palate, where you are greeted with a delicious ever, expanding mineralogy overflowing into a “YES!” reminding me of a diner scene in the movie “When Harry Met Sally.” The acidity level for this wine is bonkers, with a structure that will stand the test of time. I adore the Chardonnays from Aubaine, and when you visit the Carlton Winemakers Studio, tell 'em, “I’ll have what A.J. is having.”