2007 Brewer-Clifton Mount Carmel Chardonnay

This one gets 96 points from Parker so I was delighted to find it on sale at CH Wine Co. Opened a bottle yesterday and it was a very fine bottle, burgundian in style more than typical California. But it wasn't 96 points; it lacks the depth and complexity. What I do like is the minerality and spice on the palate. On day 2, after 24 hours under argon, the aromas opened up and became more complex and interesting with pineapple, orange and grapefruit. Reminds me of a Chassagne Montrachet, actually; fruitier than most Meursaults, but not as ripe as a great Puligny. What I'm thinking is that this one needs a year in the bottle to integrate. The acid is high as is alcohol, which is fine since the fruit is plenty ripe--just doesn't have the nuance I'd expect.

Here's Parker:


The 2007 Chardonnay Mount Carmel exhibits a liqueur of rocks-like component reminiscent of a Chassagne-Montrachet grand cru. Peach blossom, white citrus, and orange notes are present in this full-throttle, intensely flavored Chardonnay, and brilliant acidity gives the wine laser-like precision. This is another tour de force from these talented winemakers.