Review: 2019 Bernier Chardonnay
Bernier’s Loire Valley-sourced chardonnay continues to break with tradition by putting the varietal on the label instead of the region. In fact, chardonnay is a relatively rare but not unheard-of grape for this region, and Bernier proves that maybe more should be being done with it here.
Fresh and unoaked, this wine offers a heavy apple and pear character, gently buttery with just a touch of saline to offset the grape’s natural creaminess. The wine is definitely reminiscent of Chablis, though it’s a bit bolder in body, coming across as slightly doughy on the finish — though certainly not in a bad way. It’s definitely a contender that can stand up against many a lower-end white Burgundy, especially considering the price.
A- / $16 / vineyardbrands.com
2019 Bernier Chardonnay
$16
I have to wonder what the reviewer was smoking when he tasted this. Crisp? Yes,as in sour. Light? Yes, as in forgettable. Doughy aftertaste? Yes,as in Alka seltzer after a bad night. Reminiscent of Chablis? No,if you can even remember that far back to your last Chablis, it’s completely undistinguished. Give this one a miss.