2020 Chardonnay Private Reserve

Although not labeled as such, Beringer's Private Reserve Chardonnay has been sourced for decades from the Gamble Ranch in Oakville. Planted around 1976 to Clone 4, the grapes are picked ripe and barrel fermented at relatively warm temperatures to build mouthfeel. The 2020 Chardonnay Private Reserve (along with all the other white varieties) was picked prior to any risk of smoke taint. Marked by scents of mango, guava and pineapple, it doesn't come across as that oaky, despite being barrel fermented and aged in approximately 80% new French oak. It's full-bodied and slightly buttery, with an appealing custardy richness and a long finish.