Beringer Founders Estate Chardonnay (75cl, 13.5%)

Beringer Founders Estate Chardonnay is a California Chardonnay at 13.5% ABV in a 750ml bottle. A split fermentation technique, 70% in oak barrels and 30% in stainless steel, gives it a layered profile. Beringer Vineyards was founded in 1876 by Jacob and Frederick Beringer in Napa Valley. The Founders Estate line sources fruit from California's Central Coast, North Coast and Delta growing areas. Roughly 70% of the Chardonnay is barrel fermented and aged for eight months in French and American oak barrels, 20% new, while 30% is fermented in stainless steel. The aroma leads with lemon curd and baked apple, followed by nutmeg and crushed hazelnut, with subtle vanilla from oak. The palate brings ripe pear, apple, peach and pineapple, with gentle smokiness and warm spice. The finish is moderate, with lingering vanilla, soft citrus and spicy oak.