93-95 points Robert Parker: "The fresh, lively 2009 Chardonnay Belle Cote (2,850 cases; 15.2% alcohol) exhibits abundant floral and tropical fruit blossom notes intermixed with notions of poached pear, honeysuckle, oak and earth. The complex aromatics are followed by a medium-bodied, elegant, fresh, lively white that should keep for 6-8 years." (02/11) 93 points Wine Spectator Insider: "Beautifully balanced, rich and well-proportioned, with tiers of butterscotch, fig, melon, hazelnut and spice flavors. This is full-bodied, yet very elegant and stylish for its size and depth of flavor. Drink now through 2018." 92 points from Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Green-gold. Ripe melon and peach on the nose, with notes of honey and toasty lees adding an impression of richness. Fleshy and expansive on the palate, displaying dense pit fruit and honeydew flavors and a late note of candied orange. Finishes smooth and broad, with lingering spiciness and a hint of allspice. (May/June '11)A more tropical expression than the La Carriere, the Peter Michael Belle Côte comes from a site just next to the aforementioned vineyard, but it has a more easterly exposure and thicker soils. Marmalade and lychee with a touch of wet stone on the nose and palate, with a rich leesy texture that lingers on the finish.