Beringer is one of California’s most interesting producers, dating back to 1876 when brothers Jacob and Frederick became pioneers in Napa and began producing world-class wines. Always taking pain-staking care to highlight the unique characteristics of the individual vineyards, the winemaking team respects the expectations set by the estate’s long history.
The estate now offers tours, tastings and an on-site chef that features estate grown produce in her recipes. This comprehensive approach to wine enjoyment enhances the Beringer experience for those lucky enough to visit. Those there on a weekend can even enjoy live music varying from Blues to Flamenco.
Laurie Hook now heads this winemaking team and adds a modern elegance to the Beringer portfolio. She particularly admires the Chardonnay from the Big Ranch Vineyard, which boasts Dijon clones, and 2012 is the debut vintage of their Luminus Chardonnay.
Aptly named as Luminus is from Latin for “light”, this Chardonnay is a beautiful shade of yellow, like sunlight in a glass! I enjoyed it on a recent weekday evening with the temperatures warm enough to open the windows to enjoy the breeze. The first thing that came to mind when I tasted was “balance” – all of the flavors were elegantly positioned with each other on the palate, none of them elbowing their way forward to be noticed. This is not to say that there is not a lot to be noticed here – the Luminus offers up honeysuckle, nectarine and very subtle oak, all pleasingly interspersed with each other and quite enjoyable. It is fresh with just the right level of acidity and would pair nicely with many of summer’s favorite foods – simply prepared seafood, lightly grilled vegetables, even just fresh rustic bread and artisanal cheeses.
At only $31.95 per bottle, 2012 Beringer Luminus Chardonnay is affordable enough to open for just the two of you or a whole crowd! Antonio Galloni gives it 92 points so friends and family will certainly think you paid more. We have it in stock and ready for your table – I highly recommend having a few on hand to enjoy all summer long.