Peter Michael Chardonnay Belle Cote 2023

‘Belle Cte’, French for Beautiful Slope, was named by Sir Peter after the famous ski run in Courchevel, France. The oldest of the four Knights Valley Estate Chardonnay vineyards, Belle Cte consistently exemplifies the potential of crafting exceptionally high-quality Chardonnay from our mountain vineyards. Planted at 1,700 to 1,800 feet (518 to 549 meters), Belle Cte has a southeastern exposure and a western border of native trees, which shelter the vines from the hot afternoon sun. These unique attributes create a naturally cool microclimate that provides an extended growing period and slow-ripening fruit, resulting in a later picking schedule that often continues into October (two to three weeks longer than most Chardonnay vineyards in Napa and Sonoma Counties).

Critical Accliam

96 Wine Advocate

I tasted the 2023 Chardonnay Belle Cte from tank just before it was bottled. From vines planted in 1990, its open and expressive, its peach and guava aromas complemented by nuances of elderflower, graham cracker and crme brle. The full-bodied palate is satiny and expansive with tropical, spicy flavors. Its concentration is balanced by vibrant acidity, and it has a long, bright finish. A total of 2,038 cases were made, and the wine will be released in April of 2025.