We just returned from a fantastic wine trip from Bordeaux, organized by Armin Diel (www.armindiel.com). Therefore, we have immediately tasted a wine from the travel program, Château Canon-La-Gaffeliere. And also Chardonnays from Bernhard Koch, which are among the top German Chardonnays. Weingut Bernhard Koch from the Palatinate is not so well known, but makes sensational Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, which belong to the top of Germany and are also very durable.
The Bernhard Koch 2021 Chardonnay Reserve has a great price-performance ratio, should last at least 10 years and is fun to drink right now. The wine has blossoms and lime and is spicy, mineral and phenolic, with medium to full body, good balance and light fruit sweetness. 17.8/20 points.
The Bernhard Koch 2020 Chardonnay Reserve du Fils is a bit denser and creamier with more modern wood use, but also less fruit. 17.8/20 points.
The Bernhard Koch 2020 Chardonnay Grande Reserve is currently at the beginning of its evolution and will need 5-10 years to reach its peak. The wine has blossoms and stronger and more modern wood use with vanilla and licorice. It is dense, creamy, balanced and has a full body, lots of glycerin, a long finish and lots of potential. This is truly an alternative to Burgundy. 18.5/20 points.
The Château Canon La Gaffelière 2005 St. Emilion Grand Cru Classe is ideal for fans of classic Bordeaux. The wine has cassis, elderberry, elder wood, blackberry, full body, a medium to long finish, cool fruit and is phenolic. It is riper than expected and should be drunk now. 18/20 points.