2021 Bell Wine Cellars Chardonnay

Bell Wine Cellars in Yountville was founded in 1998 by winemaker Anthony Bell. A native of South Africa, Bell earned viticultural degrees in South Africa and California before beginning a 15-year career at Beaulieu Vineyards, and, later starting his own winemaking venture. In 2002 Bell sold part interest in his winery to Ron Berberian, a wine wholesaler, and Alex Spanos, an NFL team owner. Bell remains winemaker, and the estate produces both red and white wines. Along with estate vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Bell Wine Cellars produces Pinot Noir with Oregon grapes, as well as Syrah and other reds sourced from California vineyards. The estate also produces white wines, Port and sparkling wine.

Yountville AVA is just west of Stags Leap and north of Oak Knoll. It is centered around the town of Yountville, named for George Yountville, who planted the area’s first vineyard in 1836. The district received appellation status in 1999 and it includes 4,000 vineyard acres. It is known for tannic Cabernet Sauvignon that has a reputation for aging well. Dominus Estate, formerly Napanook Vineyard, is one of the most prestigious producers in Yountville, and in all of Napa Valley.

This white variety originated in Burgundy, but is now grown around the world. Its flexibility to thrive in many regions translates to wide flavor profile in the market. Chardonnay is commonly used in making Champagne and sparkling wines.