Beverage of the Week (BOW)
Beringer Bros. Bourbon Barrel Aged Chardonnay California 2016
Product Story
This California appellation Chardonnay is made with grapes grown in several of California's top sites. It was fermented in stainless steel tanks with 25% going through malolactic fermentation (this is what adds butteriness and creaminess to Chardonnay). Only 20% of the finished wine is aged in second-pass Bourbon barrels for a period of 60 days. Utilizing second-pass Bourbon barrels (the very assertive Bourbon flavors are found in the first-use barrels) and limiting the contact to just 60 days, the Beringer Bros. have created a Chardonnay that soars with this subtle addition. The charred, American oak barrels do not overpower the complex and more delicate flavors found in the wine. Bravo!
Brand Story
More than 150 years ago the Beringer brothers founded a winery and distillery in California’s Napa Valley. Today the Beringer name is virtually synonymous with California wine and the original distillery is all but forgotten. To honor their founders Beringer has introduced a new line called Beringer Bros. Bourbon Aged wines that to date include Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a Red Cuvee. The wines are cleverly aged for a brief period in second-pass Bourbon barrels that imparts the delicious subtle of charred American oak with accents of sweet Bourbon. The labels feature a historic photo of the Beringer Brothers in front of the old winery/distillery.
Tasting Note
Brilliant, medium golden color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of white peach and vanilla bean with supporting notes of apricot stone and butterscotch. The palate confirms the nose delivering a ripe stone fruits-driven core with flavors of lychee and vanilla cream. The finish is long and lingering with bold flavors of toasted oak. Medium to full-bodied and nicely balanced with a supple texture.
How to Serve
Serve chilled with nothing but a glass if you wish but it's great with fowl and oily fish dishes as this Chardonnay possesses vibrant acidity and ideal balance.
Price: $ 17.99
BevX Review: http://bevx.com/wine-detail/?id=3872
