2012 Chardonnay Point Rouge
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Tasting notes
Remarkably, both vintages of Peter Michael’s top Chardonnay selection, the Point Rouge, may merit perfect scores. A selection of the best barrels, it is meant to age for 30 or more years. It represents the crème de la crème essence of what this estate is about. Helen Turley first coined the term by putting red dot stickers on the best barrels in the cellar, hence the name Point Rouge. This cuvée is made from Old Wente selections and some of the estate’s oldest vines, particularly the 25-year-old vines in Belle Côte. The 2012 Chardonnay Point Rouge is slightly more ostentatious and flamboyant than the 2013, with lots of orange marmalade, a full-bodied texture, creamy crème brûlée notes, exotic pineapple and a mind-boggling finish. In my 36-year career, this is one of the single greatest Chardonnays I have ever tasted. It should drink well for 10-15 years, although Peter Michael thinks it has 30 years of aging potential.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Bright yellow. Complex floral bouquet evokes honeysuckle, jasmine and poached pear, with an intense mineral overtone. At once deep and lively, offering sappy orchard fruit and lemon pith flavors and complicating notes of ginger and saffron. Really stains the palate but shows surprising vivacity for its brawn. Clings with impressive tenacity on the powerful finish, showing smoky mineral and gingery spice qualities. (ST)
About the producer
Founded in 1983 by Sir Peter Michael CBE and his wife Margaret, Peter Michael Winery produces some of California’s finest wines.