Peter Michael Chardonnay Knights Valley Ma Belle-Fille 2021

(96-98) points Erin Brooks (Wine Advocate): "I tasted the 2021 Chardonnay Ma Belle Fille as a finished tank sample the day before it was bottled. Matured for 12 months in about 40% new French oak, it is youthfully gregarious at this stage, boasting scents of white peach, nutmeg, panna cotta and hints of lime candy and floral perfume. The medium-bodied palate is silky and seamless, with its focused acidity energizing the concentrated, spicy fruit, and it finishes with tremendous length, flavor and juiciness that begs you to take another sip. 1,661 cases were made. This will be released in July of 2023. (Feb 2023)."

97 points Lisa Perrotti-Brown (The Wine Independent): "The 2021 Ma Belle-Fille needs a little coaxing to bring out notes of lemongrass, crushed rocks, Marcona almonds, and lemon drops, leading to notes of Golden Delicious apples and juicy pears. The medium-bodied palate slowly grows in the mouth, with intense apple and mineral layers supported by seamless freshness, finishing with jaw-dropping grace. Drink 2024-2040 (Jun 2023)"

96 points Audrey Frick (JebDunnuck.com): "Pouring a youthful yellow hue with silver highlights, the 2021 Chardonnay Ma Belle-Fille is ripe with fresh apricot, orange blossoms, and delicate baking spices. Full-bodied, with a fresh, clean texture, a rounded feel, and no harsh edges, the palate reveals fresh notes of cantaloupe, pithy citrus, vanilla, and flowers. Drink 2023-2033. (Jul 2023)."

95 points Wine Spectator: "Strikes remarkable balance between bright, fresh acidity and rich notes of lemon curd, mango puree, poached pear, dried pineapple and honeycomb on a sleek frame. Reveals hints of dried lemon grass and pineapple sage on the fresh, aromatic finish. Drink now through 2032. (Jul 2023)."

95 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2021 Chardonnay Ma Belle Fille is airy, gracious and classy. It is also one of the more understated wines in this range. Hints of apricot, chamomile, spice, mint and orange zest are beautifully lifted. The Belle Fille is very much on the delicate side for Peter Michael, largely a reflection of elevation, the highest on the property. Drink 2025-2033 (Aug 2023)."