Beringer Private Reserve Napa Valley Chardonnay 2021

The beginning of the 2021 growing season came early, with extended periods of sunny weather and periods of late, but much-needed, rain. The season was considered early, as a drought year, with the start being low on humidity, with high heat, and high winds, occurring as early as the beginning of May. The summer however returned to more seasonal, expected temperatures, and even ripening led to one of the earliest harvest beginnings. Lower yields also contributed to the early start and showed intense fruit flavor development. Once harvest began, we saw clear skies through all of September and well into October before we received some early rain. Chardonnay had one of the lowest yields on record, leading to exceptional quality in the winery, with deep layers of bright fruit flavors. Grapes for this 2021 Private Reserve were picked between September 27 and October 3, 2021.