Composition
100% Chardonnay
Vineyards
- Berlenbach Vineyard
Critics
95 Points
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #120, December 1998
The awesome 1996 Chardonnay is one of the finest made at Pahlmeyer. A massive yet remarkably well-balanced example, it boasts a leesy complexity, rich, honeysuckle, buttered citrus, and roasted hazelnut characteristics. Since it was bottled unfiltered, it is throwing some sediment, so don't have a coronary if you see what professionals call "floaters." The wine's spectacular length and richness suggest another 4-5 years of longevity. This is undoubtedly one of the 1996 vintage's superstar Chardonnays.
90 Points
James Laube, Wine Spectator, May 1998
Rich and smoky, with complex fig, melon, toast and anise flavors that are still a bit disjointed, but all the ingredients are there and a little more time in the bottle should smooth things out. Drink now through 2002.
Winemaking
- Winemaker:
- Helen Turley
- Alcohol:
- 14.0%
Barrel fermented and aged in French oak barrels. 100% malolactic fermentation. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
