1998 Peter Michael Chardonnay Cuvée Indigene
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
There are 470 cases of the 1998 Chardonnay Cuvee Indigene. Completely fermented with 100% indigenous yeast, this Chardonnay is restrained aromatically, but it is terrific on the palate, displaying explosive lemon/butter/honey flavors mixed with tropical fruit, mineral, and smoky, leesy components. Orange/tangerine notes also make an appearance. The aromatics should develop greater dimensions with another 6-12 months of bottle age. Tel. (707) 942-4459; Fax (707) 942-0209
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Full deep yellow color. Flamboyant, Burgundian aromas of hazelnut, minerals, clove oil, citrus skin, peach and apple; shows little of the exotic mango quality of the Gauer bottling even though it's from essentially the same parcels of vines. Very thick but very backward today; much less evolved than the Gauer Ranch. This has considerably more sheer fruit extract to buffer its alcohol. Offers great potential but needs at least a couple years in the bottle.
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.