The Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes for this wine were grown in Beringer’s Bale Lane Vineyard in the northern end of Napa Valley. Bale Lane enjoys the warm, sunny climate that vineyard manager Jim Frisinger believes is ideal for achieving round, full fruit flavors in both of these grape varietals. Vertical trellising systems have been implemented as an additional means of ensuring that the vines receive optimal sun and air exposure.

Wine maker notes

The techniques used to make this special botrytiseddessert wine were developed by Myron Nightingale (Beringer winemaker, 1971-84) and his wife Alice. The Nightingales spent three decades developing their method for making a wine in the style of the classic French Sauternes. The Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc for this wine were vinified separately and combined only after 23 months of barrel aging. The grapes were picked fully ripe (averaging 24.9 degrees Brix) and the whole clusters were placed in single layers on small trays. The clusters were then sprayed with pure Botrytis cinerea spores that had been carefully cultivated. The temperature and humidity were strictly controlled for about 33 hours until the botrytis was imbedded in the fruit. The humidity in the room was then lowered so that the grapes dehydrated, concentrating their aromas and flavors of apricot nectar, honey and figs. After about 14 days, with a Brix averaging 34.3 degrees, the grapes were gently pressed and the juice put into small French oak barrels for fermentation and aging. The Beringer winemaking team, led by long-time Winemaster Ed Sbragia, believes this use of barrels from fermentation through aging emphasizes the wines’ butterscotch and caramel notes. Roger Harrison, Nightingale Winemaker, oversees this labor of love and has been doing so since 1985.

Producer

Beringer Vineyards – The Beginning Our history dates back to the year 1868, when Jacob Beringer, enticed by the splendid opportunities of the new world, sailed from his home in Mainz, Germany to New York. However, New York did not appeal to Jacob and after hearing that the warm and Mediterranean plains of California were quite similar to the vineyards back home, he soon made his way to the Napa Valley. It was here that Jacob Beringer, along with his brother, Frederick Beringer, purchased land for the first Beringer Vineyard in 1875. Beringer Vineyards – Today Beringer Vineyards holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating winery in the Napa Valley. It is also one of the very few wineries that survived the draconian prohibition of 1922, which lasted over a decade. The estate is also in the National Register for Historic Places as a historic district, a status it has held since 2001. With its perfect blend of modern technology and age old traditions, Beringer Vineyards still produces memorable wines that continue to bring recognition to the company and all of Napa Valley.