Hautes-Côtes de Beaune "Les Perrières" 2003, Domaine d'Ardhuy

Another case found at the back of Mitch "King's Pantry" Sedgwick's cellar. The 2003 vintage was not designed for significant bottle-ageing due to the low acidity and the over-ripe grapes. At least the higher altitude of the hautes côtes may have afforded some protection. This chardonnay Hautes Côtes de Beaune has a convincing medium yellow colour, very limpid. The nose is more like an Albarino: pine nuts, sea salt, lemon sponge, gateau de courge. Wafts away quickly like fluffy dandelion seeds. Broad orangey flavours. Falls away after awaking the front palate without being unpleasant. More like an orange pekoe tea than a chardonnay. C'est bon, mais c'est bizarre aussi!