2003 Peter Michael Chardonnay Point Rouge
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Tasting notes
Opulent, very California. rich and luscious yet not too fat. Some interest here. Some overripe and some underripe notes – curious! Sweet finish. Hot end. But the most intriguing California white. (JR)
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
A selection of the top barrels, the 2003 Chardonnay Point Rouge exhibits aromas and flavors of orange marmalade, honeyed pineapple, citrus oil, wet stones, and a touch of exotic tropical fruits (mango and papaya). This stunning Chardonnay is super-concentrated, but behaves like a ballerina in the mouth. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. Tel. (707) 942-3200; Fax (707) 942-0209
Straw-gold color, the deepest of these 2003 chardonnays. Exotic, superripe aromas of pineapple, dried fruits, butterscotch and honey. Huge, fat and exotic. Initially seemed less shapely than the Cuvee Indigene but with aeration this wine showed more obvious minerality, a strong pineapple flavor and excellent acidity. Even fuller than the Cuvee Indigene and utterly seamless, with uncanny sweetness of fruit. Eighteen barrels were selected from a total of 365, then further reduced to 12.
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.