Walter Scott Freedom Hill Chardonnay, Willamette Valley, USA 2023

Walter Scott Wines was founded with a simple but ambitious goal: to craft world-class wines that capture the depth and energy of the Willamette Valley. Ken Pahlow and Erica Landon have built Walter Scott into one of the world’s most acclaimed wineries.

Ken’s journey through St. Innocent, Patricia Green Cellars, and Evening Land Vineyards provided an invaluable education, shaping his philosophy and deepening his understanding of site-driven winemaking. Most impactfully, his time alongside Dominique Lafon left a lasting imprint, revealing the discipline, work ethic, and uncompromising commitment to learning that exceptional winemaking demands. This pivotal mentorship ignited a relentless drive for excellence—one that continues to define Walter Scott and sparked an obsession with Chardonnay.

Today, Walter Scott stands as a benchmark producer in the Willamette Valley, earning international acclaim for wines that are both precise and profound. Through it all, Ken and Erica remain fiercely focused—knowing that great wines are made with intention, respect, and an uncompromising pursuit of quality. 

"Pale silver/yellow in hue and coming from Mount Pisgah Polk County, the 2023 Chardonnay Freedom Hill Vineyard turns up the intensity with notes of lime oil, crushed flint, starfruit, and subtle spice. Medium-bodied and saturating on the palate, the acidity is present but even, offering a graceful tension. The finish carries elegant notes of white peach and candied lime. A beautiful, expressive wine to drink." Jeb Dunnuck 96