2002 Peter Michael Chardonnay Ma Belle Fille
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Tasting notes
(Peter Michael purchased this property at the top of the estate, at an altitude of 2,000 feet, in 1998 and planted the vines in 1999, using Hudson, Hyde, Mt. Eden and Calera clones) Bright yellow. Crystallized yellow fruits complicated by spices, coconut, fresh herbs, smoke and earth, with mineral and fern nuances. Fat, sweet and hugely rich, with an open-knit texture and superripe pineapple flavor. But there's firm structure underneath. Offers uncanny persistence for a chardonnay from very young vines.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Extraordinary aromas of orange blossoms, ripe apple skins, liquefied rocks, citrus oils, and a hint of tropical fruit soar from the glass of the 2002 Chardonnay Ma Belle Fille. The debut vintage of this 960-case cuvee, made from a vineyard at 2000 foot elevation, it is a full-bodied, beautifully pure, loaded effort. (Not yet released) Tel. (707) 942-4459; Fax (707) 942-0209
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.