2020 Chardonnay La Carriere
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Tasting notes
Matured for 12 months in about 40% new French oak, the 2020 Chardonnay La Carrière is more aromatically reserved than its 2021 counterpart, taking time to give up scents of baked peaches, pie crust, jasmine and allspice. The medium-bodied palate is open and inviting, with refreshing acidity to balance its concentrated, spicy fruit and a touch of phenolic texture anchoring the long finish. It continues to blossom dramatically with air, so give this a couple of hours in the decanter to show its best. 2,150 cases were made.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A more delicate and refined La Carriere, with sliced dried pineapple, slate, pear and lemon curd. Lemon zest, too. It’s medium-bodied with a long, flavorful finish. Linear and long. Drinkable now, but even better in a year or two.
On the nose, the 2020 Chardonnay La Carriere is flush with sunny primary fruit of peach, ripe pineapple, and flinty minerality. The body is full, with a glycerin-rich mouthfeel, and ripe with cantaloupe, custard, and lemon candy. Drink this over the next 10 or more years.
Aromatic and vibrant, revealing orange blossom and wildflower honey notes up front, with a terrifically concentrated core of lemon curd, peach and mango. Fresh and juicy, with hints of vanilla custard and a touch of sea salt toffee lingering on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2030. 2,150 cases made.
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.