PAUL LATO CHARD BELLE JOUR '16   

PAUL LATO CHARDONNAY "BELLE DE JOUR", DUVARITA VINEYARD, SANTA BARBARA COUNTY 2016

NVWE Notes: If tight at opening, the nose of this sensational wine expands to reveal precisely layered scents of tarte tatin, white peach, golden mulberry, gooseberry, lemon curd, lime, orange blossom, yellow rose, vanilla wafer, white pepper and hazelnut husk, all poised above firming mineral undercurrents. It suggests Batard-Montrachet on the palate, where contrasts of piquant zest, creamy-rich caramel hints and chalky notes frame in the ultra-long cascade of apple, peach pie, lime, orange zest, golden fig, gooseberry, vanilla wafer, baking-spice and toasted hazelnut. Wait a few years to see even more grandeur, or drink it now with luxuriously sauced entrees.

Wine Advocate

93 Points

The 2016 Chardonnay Belle de Jour Hilliard Bruce Vineyard reveals aromas of lime zest, preserved citrus, white flowers and struck match, followed by a medium-bodied, bright and tensile palate, with an elegantly glossy attack, excellent energy and a long, chalky finish. Intensely flavored and mouthwateringly fresh, this is a beautiful Chardonnay from Paul Lato. Drink Date: 2018 - 2026 William Kelley 27th Apr 2018

Vinous

93 Points

The 2016 Chardonnay Belle de Jour Duvarita Vineyard is a very pretty and expressive wine. In this vintage, the Duvarita possesses striking texture and creaminess, with a slightly more tropical profile than in the past. Orange peel, vanilla, hazelnut and spices are some of the signatures. The 2016 finishes with terrific aromatic presence and a freshness that seems to grow as it sits in the glass. Drink 2018 - 2024. Antonio Galloni Sep 2018