1999 Belle Cote Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
At last! Fine, top-quality young Californian Chardonnay – but at a heck of a price. Very gentle texture. Just off dry. Lively, very good balance and distinctly flirtatious. (JR)
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Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
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The fourth vintage for this estate's Belle Cote Chardonnay, the 1999 was produced from three clones of Chardonnay (the Old Wente, Rued, and See). Most of the fermentation was by indigenous yeast, and the wine was aged in 53% new French oak prior to being bottled with neither fining nor filtration. It reveals gorgeous aromas and flavors of tropical fruits, lemon zest, pears, and minerals. This authoritatively rich, complex, elegant Chardonnay is medium-bodied, well-delineated, and beautifully concentrated, with exotic floral and spice notes in addition to well-integrated oak. It should drink well for 4-5 years. (Not yet released) Tel. (707) 942-4459; Fax (707) 942-0209
Slightly hazy appearance. Highly aromatic nose combines lime skin, flower blossom, oak spices and an exotic note of orange oil. Sweeter and fatter than the Carriere, but with sound acids giving the lush flavors a penetrating quality. Long and satisfying.
About the producer
Founded in 1983 by Sir Peter Michael CBE and his wife Margaret, Peter Michael Winery produces some of California’s finest wines.