
2023 Cerro Chardonnay Napa Valley
Quick Description
- 93pt Napa Chardonnay Gold—Rare, Racy, Real Deal!
- "A Rich, Attractive, Plush & Layered Chardonnay" ~93 Decanter
- Nephew of Charlie Wagner, Learned Wine Biz at Caymus
- Very Limited: ONLY 230 Cases Made
- BHW has the Lowest Price Anywhere!
- Free Shipping on 6 or More Bottles


2023 Cerro Chardonnay Napa Valley
- 93pt Napa Chardonnay Gold—Rare, Racy, Real Deal!
- "A Rich, Attractive, Plush & Layered Chardonnay" ~93 Decanter
- Nephew of Charlie Wagner, Learned Wine Biz at Caymus
- Very Limited: ONLY 230 Cases Made
- BHW has the Lowest Price Anywhere!
- Free Shipping on 6 or More Bottles
About the Wine
In a world where Napa wines often come with a sky-high price tag, this Oak Knoll Chardonnay from JDB Wines stands out as a remarkable value that delivers pure Napa craftsmanship without compromise.
J. Derek Beitler, winemaker and owner of JDB Wines comes from a winemaking family that’s as well regarded as any in Napa. You may have heard of his uncle, Charlie Wagner, founder of Caymus. His brother owns Bohème in Sonoma.
Derek does not rest on the successes of his family, though. He spent his summers working at Caymus while in college and continues the pursuit of perfection in crafting his namesake wines. He now owns two wineries—Carne Humana Winery in Napa which he founded with his cousin Joey Wagner in 2010. But before that, he started his solo venture, JDB Wines, in 2007.
What makes this Chardonnay truly special begins in the vineyard, where whole cluster pressing preserves the grape’s pristine aromatics. The juice then undergoes native primary fermentation in barrel—embracing natural yeasts that coax complex layers and subtle texture. Crucially, there is no malolactic fermentation, which means the wine maintains a bright, crisp acidity with a refreshingly clean, mineral-driven profile.
With only 230 cases produced, this wine is a rare boutique treasure—crafted with intention, precision, and a deep respect for Oak Knoll’s unique terroir. The cooling influence of San Pablo Bay tempers the Napa sun, giving this Chardonnay a vibrant lift, balancing luscious fruit with an energetic freshness. The result is a wine that dances on the palate—offering zesty citrus, white floral notes, and a touch of mineral elegance that elevates every sip.
Tasting Notes
100% Chardonnay. Zesty lemon and lime jump from the glass, joined by fresh white blossoms and a hint of vanilla toast. On the palate, bright citrus, crisp apple, and juicy melon shine with a creamy oak touch. The finish is long, fresh, and mineral-driven with a subtle yeasty twist.
Critical Reviews
A rich, attractive, plush and layered Chardonnay delivering generous baked orchard fruit, warm toasty baking spices, buttered croissant, apple tart and candied ginger, with excellent mid-palate concentration and a flavourful finish. Cerro falls under the JDB Wines label, owned by J. Derek Beitler, whose uncle, Charlie Wagner, founded Caymus. Beitler also owns Carne Humana Winery in Napa, which he established with his cousin Joey Wagner in 2010. He founded JDB Wines in 2007. ~93 Decanter
93 ~ Greg Martellotto, Owner & Founder BIghammerwines.com
***Free Shipping on 6 or More Bottles of This Wine***
Food Pairing
Fish
Risotto
White Meat
Don't Miss This

2023 Cerro Chardonnay Napa Valley