93
points
Bernardus 2008 Rosella's Vineyard Chardonnay (Santa Lucia Highlands)
-
$40
Lots of razzle-dazzle in this rich, opulent Chardonnay. Shows buttery, oak-inspired pear and pineapple flavors, with a leesy, creamy mouthfeel, and fine acidity to brighten and balance all that richness. Drink this decadent wine with lobster, scallops, crab or shrimp, or a great ahi tuna tartare with potato chips.
— S.H.
(8/1/2010)
92
points
Bernardus 2006 Rosella's Vineyard Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands)
-
$75
This is one of those Pinot Noirs that demands time in the cellar. Reviewed at slightly more than two years of age, it tastes of fresh young primary fruits, such as cherries, raspberries, blackberries and cola, and the sweet, smoky oak stands out apart. Yet the tannins and acids are outstanding. Give it until mid-2010.
— S.H.
(7/1/2009)
92
points
Bernardus 2009 Sierra Mar Vineyard Chardonnay (Santa Lucia Highlands)
-
$40
An elegant Chardonnay, brisk in acidity, with a firm minerality, like a lick of steel. It’s very dry, but seems almost sweet, with a wealth of lime, pineapple, peach and green apple fruit that’s perfectly ripe. Drink this flashy young wine now.
— S.H.
(8/1/2011)
92
points
Bernardus 2008 Paraiso Vineyard Chardonnay (Santa Lucia Highlands)
-
$40
A rich, brisk and complex Chardonnay that shows cool-climate structure and the ripe fruit that comes from a good vintage and great viticulture, in a difficult growing region. The pineapple, pear and golden mango flavors are enriched with lots of smoky, buttery oak, and offset with crisp acidity. Decadent and delicious.
— S.H.
(8/1/2010)
92
points
Bernardus 2009 Rosella's Vineyard Chardonnay (Santa Lucia Highlands)
-
$40
Lots of richness in this Chardonnay, in the form of pineapples, pears, peaches, nectarines and golden mangoes. But you’ll also find a firm minerality that grounds it, and supportive acidity, like a squirt of lime. Oak adds the final touch of vanilla and caramel.
— S.H.
(8/1/2011)