Introduction
Peter Michael Mon Plaisir Chardonnay Knights Valley 2022 is a superb expression of cool-climate Chardonnay from an esteemed winery. The name “Mon Plaisir” means “my pleasure” in French, and it is a nod to Sir Peter Michael’s joy in creating this exceptional wine. The vineyard sits on the steep, volcanic slopes of Mount Saint Helena in Knights Valley. This unique terroir, with its rocky soils and extended sun exposure, allows the grapes to develop complexity and depth. The 2022 vintage had a long, mild summer, which allowed for slow, gradual ripening and resulted in a wine with remarkable balance, concentration, and a lively, focused character.
Character Description
This Chardonnay shimmers with a brilliant, golden color. The bouquet is complex and captivating, with a fragrance of orange blossom, yellow rose, and white peach. These floral and stone fruit notes are beautifully layered with hints of honeydew melon, vanilla bean, and toasted almond. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and powerful, with a creamy, rich mouthfeel. A vibrant, focused acidity supports an intense core of ripe pear and citrus. The finish is long and expansive, leaving a lasting impression of elegant fruit, marzipan, and nuanced wet-stone minerality.
Perfect Pairings
This monumental Chardonnay is perfect for robust and elegant dishes. Its rich texture and vibrant acidity make it a great companion for rich seafood. It pairs beautifully with pan-seared scallops, lobster, or grilled halibut with a creamy sauce. It also works well with roasted chicken or pork loin. For a truly decadent experience, serve it with a mushroom and truffle risotto, or with a variety of hard and soft cheeses.
About the Winery
Sir Peter Michael founded Peter Michael Winery in 1982 with a vision to create world-class, terroir-driven wines. His philosophy is “mountain vineyards, classical winemaking, limited production.” This dedication allows each parcel’s unique character to express itself fully. The Mon Plaisir is a testament to this philosophy, showing the remarkable power and finesse their mountain-grown Chardonnay can achieve.
