A tank sample, the 2018 Chardonnay Belle Cote comes from a block planted to Old Wente and See Clone selections. In fact, this is from the oldest, 1990 plantings on the estate. Wow-the nose explodes from the glass with powerful scents of guava, quince, tangerine and lime blossoms plus touches of ginger ale, peach cobbler and crème caramel with a waft of struck flint. Medium-bodied, the palate features laser precision with a racy line cutting through the intense, tightly wound, mineral-laced fruit, finishing long and zesty. Should age incredibly! 3,100 cases are due to be made.

The 2018 Chardonnay Belle-Côte from the oldest vines on the property (planted in 1990), possesses dazzling mineral intensity to match its mid-weight, delineated personality. Lemon peel, pear, mint, white pepper and sage all develop in the glass. The clonal mix here is See, old Wente and Rued, with the floral top notes of Rued (that recall Riesling) especially evident, even if Rued comprises the smallest part of the blend.