2012 Peter Michael Chardonnay Cuvée Indigene
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Tasting notes
The Chardonnay Cuvée Indigène was inspired by Helen Turley in 1988. Essentially a winemaker’s barrel selection from the finest lots of the Old Wente clone, the dominate clonal component of all these single-vineyard wines, it is fermented with natural yeasts, and has always been one of Peter Michael’s finest Chardonnays. Utter perfection, the 2012 Chardonnay Cuvée Indigène (460 cases) possesses copious notes of orange marmalade, apricot, crème brûlée, honeysuckle, citrus oil and nectarines. This beautiful, seamless, exotic, full-bodied, compelling Chardonnay reveals a 45-second finish. Drink now-2025.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Light gold. Deep, intense aromas of poached pear, nectarine and jasmine, along with a powerful mineral element. Deeply concentrated orchard and citrus fruit flavors pick up notes of vanilla and candied fig with air, along with a refreshing kick of chalky minerality. Plush and expansive but also energetic and precise, finishing with outstanding power and stony persistence.
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.