“Novellum is richly- styled wine, but carries such refinement and elegance! (This cuvée compares to a world class, expensive Chardonnay from famous winemaker Mark Aubert). This 2020 Novellum has a medium gold hue as well as a rich, powerful bouquet of caramelized lemon, honeyed almonds, and toasted bread. Medium to full-bodied, rich flavors, beautifully textured, and amazingly balanced…this is a no brainer purchase!”

Lafage's 2021 Novellum Chardonnay is a terrific value. Chardonnay aged on Viognier lees, with a small proportion of barrel aging, it's full-bodied, rich, round, mouth-coating and generous yet with a decent sense of balance. Peach, pineapple and gentle oak shadings all make appearances, and the wine finishes long, with an enlivening hint of brine.