The fourth vintage for this estate's Belle Cote Chardonnay, the 1999 was produced from three clones of Chardonnay (the Old Wente, Rued, and See). Most of the fermentation was by indigenous yeast, and the wine was aged in 53% new French oak prior to being bottled with neither fining nor filtration. It reveals gorgeous aromas and flavors of tropical fruits, lemon zest, pears, and minerals. This authoritatively rich, complex, elegant Chardonnay is medium-bodied, well-delineated, and beautifully concentrated, with exotic floral and spice notes in addition to well-integrated oak. It should drink well for 4-5 years. (Not yet released) Tel. (707) 942-4459; Fax (707) 942-0209