Winemaker Notes
Following the traditional French blanc de noirs method, after crushing the fruit, Ed quickly chilled the must (pulp, juice and skins) to preserve the fresh strawberry, raspberry and citrus aromas and flavors in the Zinfandel grapes. The juice was pressed off once it had gained a bright berry hue from contact with the skins. It was then fermented at cool temperatures and chilled further to stop fermentation. Then, Ed blended in Chardonnay that had been fermented and aged in small, French Nevers oak barrels to round out the berry flavors and add notes of pear, citrus and cinnamon spice, as well as a slightly creamy texture.
No winery or vineyard more thoroughly embodies the timeless appeal and seductive flavor of Napa Valley than Beringer Vineyards, Napa's benchmark producer since the establishment of the vineyard in 1876.
Now in its third century of crafting classic wines from Napa's finest appellations and vineyards, Beringer today is guided by the inspired partnership of celebrated Winemaster Emeritus Ed Sbragia and Winemaker Laurie Hook. Together, they craft Napa Valley wines that speak eloquently of the rich heritage of the Beringer Vineyard, while offering cutting-edge quality and contemporary elegance. The exquisite wines crafted at the Beringer Vineyards display a single minded dedication and pursuit of excellence instilled by its founder, Jacob Beringer.