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 Sierra Mar Vineyard has been aged for over 15 months. The grapes for this gem are of course all harvested by hand so that only the best juice is used for this wine. Due to the long aging of the wood, the color is deep golden yellow. The scent is very special. The aromas of apple and pear form a beautiful interplay with hints of orange blossom, caramel and even some petroleum. The taste is full, thick and very diverse. In the beginning we immediately recognize the Bernardus Chardonnay style, later this is transformed by special nuances of candied orange peel, cream, cinnamon and nutmeg. A perfect combination with the tropical fruit. The finish is intense and long. Truly a mouth full. This Chardonnay Bernardus Sierra Mar Vineyard is a Chardonnay for the advanced Chardonnay drinker. Full bodied, buttercotsch but that in combination with the great acidity makes this Napa chardonnay almost burgundy.

Fun fact: only about 90-120 bottles of this wine come to the Netherlands every year.