Bachelder Wismer-Wingfield Ouest Vineyard Chardonnay 2019

Bachelder's latest ripening parcel, the furthest from the lake at just under 7kms, the 'Ouest' parcel is the highest elevation of the Wingfield slope (169m a.s.l), and has for several vintages now delivered Bachelder's finest chardonnay. The 2019 is a wine of impeccable balance, and ripe, round, creamy texture framed by firm acids, with exceptional complexity, depth and length, and a level of concentration that goes well beyond the mean. Bachelder seems to have loosened the reins on this one, allowing it to develop broadly, though it seems it could have easily gone the way of tighter and more mineral, such is the stony signature, like vacillating between Chassagne and Corton. In any case, its a very 'Charmes' vintage with spectacular palate presence. I suspect this will one day be considered a Niagara 'grand cru' site for chardonnay to be sure. Drink or hold into the mid-late-'20s - I don't think this bottling needs extended cellaring to enjoy. Tasted December 2021. Score - 95. (John Szabo, MS, winealign.com)