($75) Light, bright yellow. Stone fruits and fresh pineapple on the nose; with notes of talc and iodine adding complexity. The most opulent and exotic of this year's chardonnays but that's strictly relative. Pliant, juicy pear and white peach flavors are lifted by a smoky mineral quality that also contributes shape and backbone. Comes off as the Meursault among a line-up of Pulignys today. Fleshy and smooth on the long finish but still plenty lively and sappy.

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The 2008 Chardonnay Belle Cote offers copious aromas of honeyed orange blossoms, brioche and sweet pineapple as well as a full-bodied, dense, rich mouthfeel and great acidity buttressing the wine's intensity and power. This superb white wine can be enjoyed over the next 7-8 years.

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A rich, unctuous, full-bodied style, with ripe fig, melon, honeysuckle and floral scents that are full-bodied and concentrated, turning elegant, with a long, persistent finish.

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This is one of the best chardonnays I have had. An example of the excellence of Peter Michael.