Peter Michael - Chardonnay Knights Valley La Carrière 2021
Price: $124.99
| Producer | Peter Michael |
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| Country | United States |
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| Region | California |
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| Subregion | Sonoma County |
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| Varietal | Chardonnay |
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| Vintage | 2021 |
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| Sku | 30989 |
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Peter Michael Description
VINTAGE NOTES
The drier conditions and earlier budbreak were followed by more variable weather during the Chardonnay blooming period resulting in less fruit setting and low yields. Moderate summer temperatures allowed for a long, steady ripening period and ultimately highly-concentrated, expressive berries for the 2021 vintage. The Chardonnay harvest began on August 18th and completed on September 20th.
The 2021 ‘La Carrière’ shimmers a lovely, soft yellow in the glass with an inviting blend of pear, brioche and jasmine leading to notes of yellow spring flowers and honeysuckle with a hint of vanilla custard. The creamy mouthfeel is supported by lively acidity and a dense mid-palate with ample gras. Lemon curd, pastry and vanilla bean follow through to a focused, lengthy finish. The 2021 ‘La Carrière’ can be enjoyed early but will continue to expand for more than a decade.
Wine Advocate: 95-97 Points
I tasted the 2021 Chardonnay La Carrière as a finished tank sample the day before it was bottled. It comes from vines planted in 1994 on volcanic soils and was matured for 12 months in about 40% new French oak. It opens soft and creamy on the nose, gaining in intensity as it blossoms to scents of matchstick, saline, Meyer lemons and wafts of lemongrass. The medium-bodied palate has a satiny texture and focused acidity to support its expansive, perfumed fruit, and its classy new oak character is already well integrated. I love this juxtaposition of concentrated flavor and shimmery, energetic acidity. 2,128 cases were made. This will be released in February 2023. (EB) [Inner quote mark] (2/2023)
