2019 Peter Michael, Ma Belle-Fille, Knights Valley 1x750ml

Vinous 96

The 2019 Chardonnay Ma Belle-Fille is one of the most reticent Chardonnays in this tasting. These parcels, the highest on the property, yield a Chardonnay of real energy and power. Calera, Wente and Hudson clones make for a complex, multi-dimensional Chardonnay with tons of personality. Readers have to be patient, though, as the 2019 is young and very tight. [Antonio Galloni, 07/01/2022]

Anticipated maturity: 2024-2034

Robert Parker 98

Ma Belle Fille is the highest of the Peter Michael vineyards, located at 1,200-1,800 feet. Planted to a field selection of Hudson, Old Wente, Montrachet and Calera clones, it is also the earliest ripening vineyard. A tank sample due to be bottled in just a few days, the 2019 Chardonnay Ma Belle Fille slips seductively out of the glass with tantalizing notes of warm apple slices, ripe nectarines and spice cake, giving way to a beautiful perfume of honeysuckle, beeswax and tangerine peel, plus a waft of cashews. Full-bodied, the palate delivers mouth-coating stone fruit and spiced apple flavors with a lively backbone and decadent oiliness to the texture, finishing on a long-lasting honey-nut note. 2,017 cases were made. [Lisa Perrotti-Brown, 02/02/2021]

Anticipated maturity: 2023-2038