2007 Peter Michael Chardonnay La Carriere
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Tasting notes
Absolutely riveting with powerful citrus blossom, nectarine, lemon butter, and honeyed orange-like characteristics, the full-bodied as well as zesty, lively, mineral-laced 2007 Chardonnay La Carriere is impossible to resist. Brothers Nicolas and Luc Morlet (the former the winemaker and the latter a consultant) told me that 2008 was one of the smallest crops they have encountered, largely because of the late spring frosts, and windy conditions during flowering. Yields were low, but the quality was among the highest they have ever seen for Chardonnay, with a level of concentration reminiscent of the 2002s. As I indicated in issue #180, Peter Michael’s 2007 Chardonnays are spectacular. Production is about 30% higher per cuvee than in 2008, and these are exquisite efforts with lots of uplift, minerality, zesty aromatics, and refreshing acids. This year I should have a chance to taste the estate plantings from the huge investments Sir Peter Michael has made in Pinot Noir vineyards on the Sonoma Coast. In the meantime, here are some interesting efforts from sites where they contract for fruit. Tel. (707) 942-3200; Fax (707) 942-0209
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Pale chartreuse color. Alluringly complex bouquet displays ripe pear, peach pit, smoky lees, sweet butter and minerals; smells like a grand cru Burgundy. Vibrant, sharply focused citrus and orchard fruit flavors are underscored by smoky minerals and given depth by a candied anise quality. An iodine note builds on the finish, which is focused, nervy and very persistent.
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.