4.1 Vivino Stars (100+ Reviews)

Single vineyard whites don’t come much tastier or more elegant than this 2019 Luminus Chardonnay from Napa icon Beringer!

Winemaker Notes
Luminus features bright aromas of white flowers, star jasmine, honeysuckle and lemon zest. The captivating aromas lead to a flavorful and medium-bodied palate where white nectarine, essence of bergamot, lemon and lime notes mingle with creamy butterscotch and hazelnut nougat flavors. The judicious use of French oak lends a subtle nutty spice character. Bâttonage provides an unexpectedly plush mouthfeel, and bright acidity leaves a lingering, pleasant finish with hints of stone minerality.

James Suckling 93 Points
Dried apricot, pineapple, lemon curd, crushed stones and some hay on the nose. It’s full-bodied and buttery with concentrated mineral and ripe-fruit layers. Some spice, too. Excellent length.

Tasting Panel 93 Points
Lit from within, notes of ginger, Anjou pear, lime sorbet, and sweet cream converge with a satiny mouthfeel. As the wine opens up, acidity and minerality come through along with a crispness on the finish that is in sync with toasty hints of butterscotch.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points
The 2019 Chardonnay Luminus comes from the Oak Knoll District, which is a cooler region in the southern part of the valley. Brought up in 30% new French oak, it offers a beautiful bouquet of ripe Meyer lemons, white flowers, sappy herbs, and a touch of brioche. Nicely textured and medium-bodied, with both richness and freshness, this outstanding wine will keep for 2-4 years.

Wine & Spirits 92 Points
This chardonnay grows at Beringer’s Big Ranch Road Vineyard, where Oak Knoll cool tightens around the flashiness of the citrus flavors. Ripe orange and citrus pith flavors integrate the oak as the wine layers its flavors and lasts, a little floral, a little smoky and firm.