The obvious "Michelle" (which I like), must be the reason you get the gifts....As for the pictures on the labels.... yes I like them.
However, I assume the question is more directed towards the wines, this is my opinion:
Their late harvest are delicious, their Rieslings very acceptable, although I am certain that they could be better.
I am surprised they have not come out with an outstanding Chardonnay, or Semillon, as their piers in Washington state are capable of really putting out superb examples, such as Woodward Canyon, Blackwood Canyon (although their quality has gone down a bit, imo), L'Ecole and others.
Their reds.... I could not agree with you more, not only are they "green", (too young), and also harsh. I believe that as the American consumer becomes more educated in their wine drinking habits, I believe this will force Ch. St. Michelle, to concentrate in white wines.
Even their Merlot is too harsh, I do not think Washington state is "blessed" with the climatic conditions that a good Cabernet or Merlot require....
In my eyes, Chateau St. Michelle is too much of a Disneyland type of Winery in need of a shake out. Donald Duck seems to be the corporate Chief and Mickey Mouse the Wine Master. Worse, I think both of them are under the influence of Lucretia McEvil as the Marketing Director, catering to Disneyland lovers, who see their beloved Chateau, as a tourist attraction and not as a serious wine producer, (the Late harvest excepted). Lucretia has placed an evil spell on Princess Cinderella, (that's the excellent wines that their resources could produce.) and until that changes.... we are doomed.
Translation:
They are too commercialized, and really they need to be less "corporate" heads and be a little more romantic and really put the effort to come out with better wines.... but that sounds like a revolution that I am not sure it will take place.
Standard Disclosure:
That is only my opinion, of course.... and I do not mean that in a bad way.
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P.s.
I know that their Cheff in the Chateau is an excellent Yugoslavian cook... John ....Forgot his last name... sorry, (shame, shame), that used to own the Adriatica Restaurant in Seattle.
Unless things have change. |
