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As the oldest of three Peter Michael estate Chardonnay vineyards, Belle Côte exemplifies how well suited these mountain vineyard sites are for consistently producing exceptionally high quality Chardonnay. Given the naturally cool climate of the vineyard’s high elevation, and the fact that the site is sheltered from the hot afternoon sun by its southeastern exposure and a stand of trees on its western border, the vines are exceptionally slow to ripen. As is typical for this site, the growing season extended into October (two to three weeks longer than most Chardonnay vineyards in Napa and Sonoma counties). As a result, the 2003 harvest produced deeply concentrated, yet delicate fruit flavors balanced by excellent acidity.
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Intense, muscular and hedonistic. Aromas of roses, lychee nuts and orange rind backed by minerals and spices. Rich, full-bodied and creamy on the palate with exotic mango, apricot and green apple flavors. Balanced and seamless with a long finish. The 2003 Belle Côte is enjoyable now but given the wine’s s concentration and extract we expect it to develop for another 7+ years.
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- Harvested: September 24 – October 1, 2003
- 100% of the cuvée was fermented using natural yeast
- 100% barrel fermented (French oak from selected artisan coopers)
- Barrel aged sur lies for 11 months with weekly bâtonnage
- Bottled without fining or filtration in January 25-28, 2005
- Alcohol: 14.7%
- Release Date: April 1, 2005
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Reviews
Belle Côte Vineyard Notes
2002 Vintage
2001 Vintage
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