2009 Beringer Blanc Knights Valley
Beringer Vineyards has owned and farmed its Knights Valley vineyards since the mid-1960’s, when the Beringer family recognized that the cobbled, rocky alluvial soils created an ideal spot for growing high quality wine grapes. The Knights Valley designation was first used on a Beringer label in 1974. Beringer was instrumental in garnering official recognition for the area in 1983 as a premier wine growing region in the form of its own American Viticulture Area (AVA) designation. Knights Valley Blanc represents Beringer’s nod to a Graves-style blend, led by the classic white Bordeaux varietals, Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.
Vintage & Vineyards
The 2009 growing season was marked by a mild season overall. Light spring rains gave way to a serene, warm summer. Temperatures stayed even through August, giving the grapes an ideal timeframe in which to develop good acidity and phenolics. Overall yields were on the smaller side, making for intense varietal characteristics and flavor development immediately evident at harvest. Located 17 miles northwest of the winery, Knights Valley vineyard is approximately 600 acres, and has volcanic, well-drained soils that are perfectly suited to Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Grapes for the 2009 Knights Valley Blanc were harvested between August 27th and September 29th.
Winemaking
Winemaker Laurie Hook barrel fermented the blend for 9 months in French Nevers oak, half of which were new. The nutty, toasty aromas and flavors lent by the oak give a lush backdrop for its bright, refreshing citrus flavors. The majority of the blend underwent malolactic fermentation (96%), lending a creaminess to the overall blend that balances the crisp acidity of the Sauvignon Blanc.
Laurie's Tasting Notes
Elegant floral and vanilla bean aromas give way to flavors of citrus zest and warm brioche. The 2009 Blanc strikes a wonderful balance between rich body and bright, enticing flavors.
| Vintage: | 2009 |
| Wine Type: | White Wine |
| Varietal: | White Blend |
| Appellation: | Knights Valley |
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