Established in 2012, Lingua Franca was founded by Larry Stone, a famous San Francisco Master Sommelier and Dominique Lafon, an iconic producer of Burgundy. Lingua Franca – which translates to “honest tongue” – is inspired by a desire for transparency in winemaking and purity in the vineyard. Larry Stone found exactly this in the extraordinary vineyard site in the Eola-Amity Hills of the Willamette Valley. All work is guided by respect for the environment by following sustainable farming practices.

Tasting Notes:
The aroma is complex with layers of mineral, citrus, white flowers and gunflint. On the palate the wine is balanced, vibrant and racy with a long finish. The natural acidity of the region is rounded by labor-intensive barrel fermentation and aging. Avni 2021 has nuances of lemon peel, green apple, fresh herbs, and a softer edge of pear and vanilla blossom in the background.

Grape Varietal(s):
Chardonnay

Awards & Accolades (Robert Parker/ Wine Spectator/ James Suckling etc):

“The 2021 Chardonnay AVNI is a total pleasure on the nose. Perfumed, it blends crushed stone mineral tones with crisp green apples and suggestions of fresh mint. This flows across the palate with silky textures and medium-bodied weight traversing both savory and sweet, with a saline tinge developing toward the close. It finishes with a lingering sour lime twang, potent with a cheek-puckering sensation.” – Antonio Galloni, 91 points

“Pouring a brilliant straw hue, the 2021 Chardonnay Avni is elegant and focused, with notes of lemon balm, white flowers, fresh rain on pavement, and green apple skin. Focused, pure, and medium-bodied, with a chalky texture, it’s balanced and driven with fantastic energy without feeling austere and has a lovely flourish of fresh chive and spice on the finish. Drink it over the next 5-6 years.” – Jeb Dunnuck, 93 points