2012 Paul Lato Chardonnay Belle de Jour Hilliard Bruce Vineyard
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The finest vintage of this cuvee to date (it was first made in 2010), the 2012 Chardonnay Belle de Jour Hilliard Bruce Vineyards is one of the top Chardonnays coming out of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA today. Barrel-fermented and aged 16 months in 50% new French oak, it boast knockout aromatics of white peach, apple blossom, white flowers, buttered almonds and hints of minerality that flow seamlessly to a full-bodied, rich, textured white that has vibrant acidity, thrilling purity and a focused finish. It will be better in another 6-12 months and knock it out of the park for 3-5 years. One of my favorite producers in the Central Coast, Paul Lato continues to make thrilling Pinot Noirs and Syrahs that have texture, richness and depth while never seeming heavy or cumbersome. These are gorgeous wines across the board and you can’t go wrong here. Tel. (805) 260-3210; www.paullatowines.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Lemon oil, white flowers, mint, tangerine, butter, sweet spices and pit meld together in the 2012 Chardonnay Belle de Jour Hilliard Bruce Vineyard. Soft, textured and beautifully expressive, the Belle de Jour Hilliard Bruce Vineyard shows a bit more richness and volume than some of the other wines that have come off this property. This is a very pretty, nuanced Chardonnay from Paul Lato. Another 6-12 months should help the oak integrate more fully.