2023 Bernardus Chardonnay Rosella's Vineyard

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Description

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Almost by chance, former Dutch racing driver Ben Pon (you know, from the Pon family, which imports VW, Audi and Porsche, among others) acquired a piece of land on the Californian slopes behind Carmel Valley Village in 1989. Here he started his Bernardus Winery with the aim of producing wines that rival the greatest Bordeaux and Grand Crus.

The vineyards in the Carmel Valley are carefully planted with a variety of grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Sauvignon Blanc. While the Bordeaux-style varieties grow in the vineyards of Carmel Valley, the Chardonnay is cultivated in cool, maritime climates, namely in the Monterey Bay. Grapes from other California appellations are used to bring nuances to the Bernardus blends.

The grapes of the Bernardus Chardonnay Rosella's Vineyard come from a single vineyard, namely the Rosella's vineyard. These grapes were planted by the current winemaker Gary Franscioni. This beautiful Chardonnay has been allowed to undergo a wood aging of more than 15 months. The grapes for this gem are of course all harvested by hand so that only the best juice is used for this wine. Due to the long wood aging, the color is deep golden yellow. In the nose we smell spiced apple slices, lemon pie and orange blossom with hints of baked bread, brioche and marzipan. In the mouth the beautiful fresh acids stand out with some citrus flavors plus a hint of allspice on the aftertaste. We had never judged this as a Napa Valley Chardonnay during the tasting and much more as a handsome white Burgundy.

Fun fact: only around 90-120 bottles of this wine are brought to the Netherlands each year.

Specifications

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Packing information Box
Type of Wine White
Country USA
Region Californie
Appellation Napa Valley
Winery Bernardus
Grape Chardonnay
Biological certified No
Natural wine No
Vegan No
Vintage 2023
Drinking as of 2025
Drinking till 2030
Alcohol % 14
Alcohol free/low No
Content 0.75 ltr
Oak aging Yes
Sparkling No
Dessert wine No
Closure Cork
Parker rating 90
Tasting Profiles Complex, Droog, Houtgerijpt, Krachtig, Rijk, Rond, Vol, Wit fruit
Drink moments Indruk maken, Lekker luxe, Open haard

Professional Reviews

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Parker

90

Wijnhuis

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Bernardus Winery is located in Carmel Valley, where ocean fog and Californian sunshine take turns throughout the day. The estate is known for wines with freshness and depth. Sometimes serious, sometimes playfully surprising. The long growing season gives the grapes plenty of time to build flavor. And you can taste it.

Location and climate

Carmel Valley sits just a few kilometres from the cool Monterey coastline. You notice it immediately when the ocean breeze rolls in and temperatures drop in an instant. This daily cooling slows ripening and adds nuance to the fruit. Warm and sunny during the day, yet cool enough in the evening to reach for a jacket. That contrast is exactly what makes Bernardus wines so vibrant.

Soils and terroir of Bernardus

The soils range from granite to loam and sand, a geological buffet that the vines happily make use of. Deep rooting leads to concentration and structure. The Bordeaux varieties thrive in the warmer parcels. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir prefer the cooler spots. It is almost as if every grape has its own favourite microclimate, and Bernardus ensures they all feel at home.

Grape varieties and vineyard management

Bernardus works with estate vineyards and supplements with fruit from top growers in Santa Lucia Highlands and Arroyo Seco. All with one goal: only the best grapes enter the cellar. Harvesting is done by hand, which not only preserves quality but also provides an excellent workout for the team. Low yields mean more concentration. Fewer grapes, more flavour.

Winemaking and style at Bernardus

The red wines ferment slowly and then mature in French barriques. Not too much, not too little. Just enough to add depth without masking the fruit. The style is ripe yet balanced, with soft tannins and clear structure.

The white wines are lively and energetic. Chardonnay is aged partly in oak and partly in stainless steel, resulting in a wine that is both fresh and rounded. A bit like yin and yang in your glass.

Bernardus' philosophy

Bernardus aims to create wines with elegance and tension. No excessive richness, no overripe fruit and certainly no vanilla overload. The European influence of founder Ben Pon is still unmistakable. The estate works with respect for the natural surroundings and remains committed to a style that focuses on balance. You can almost taste the approach: nothing overcomplicated, just genuinely well made wine.

Ordering at Grandcruwijnen

At Grandcruwijnen you will find a wide range of wines from Bernardus Winery. Everything is carefully stored and ready to ship. Order online or pick up your bottles in our store in Dordrecht. Need help choosing the right wine for dinner or advice on cellaring? Our sommeliers are happy to assist. Planning a visit? See Visit us.

Attachments

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