2020 Bernardus Chardonnay Monterey County

Almost by accident the former Dutch racing driver Ben Pon (you know from the Pon family which is importer of VW, Audi and Porsche) acquired a piece of land in 1989 on the Californian slopes behind Carmel Valley Village. 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 various grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Sauvignon Blanc. While the Bordeaux style varieties grow in the vineyards in the Carmel Valley, the Chardonnay is cultivated in cool maritime climates, namely in the Monterey Bay. Grapes from other California appellations are used to add nuances to the Bernardus blends.

The Bernardus Chardonnay is made from chardonnay grapes which are harvested by hand and then gently pressed. 90% of the Chardonnay is fermented in French oak barrels, about 1/3 of which is new oak. The remaining 10% is fermented in stainless steel vats.

The Bernardus Chardonnay comes from vineyards in Monterey County and has a light golden yellow color in the glass and intense aromas of white flowers, acacia, exotic fruits. A spicy, round wine with a long and powerful aftertaste and this wine is for lovers of a full chardonnay with the well-known butter and vanilla tones.