Bernardus winery planted Ingrid’s Vineyard in 1999 at the same time Bernardus Lodge was being built. The vineyard was to be both a source of high quality grapes for the winery and also a beautiful entry way to the Lodge. It was originally planted to one acre of Pinot Noir and six acres of Chardonnay; however in 2006 the acreage was changed to 3.5 acres of Pinot Noir and 3.5 acres of Chardonnay.
The vineyards proximity to the Pacific Ocean makes it an ideal location for Burgundian Grapes such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Early morning fog gives way to mild sunny afternoons. Average summer time temperatures are 70 Fahrenheit by day and 55 Fahrenheit by night - this low diurnal temperature swing combined with a long growing season is perfect for maturing these varietals.
The soils at Ingrid’s vineyard are very uniform in both type and depth. Made up of crushed granite parent material but with a rather high level of organic matter they simultaneously allow the vines to stretch deep for water and access the minerals of the granite while also receiving enough nutrition in the top levels to thrive and create a vigorous canopy.
Vineyard Facts
| Total Acreage: | 7 acres |
| Varietals: | Chardonnay, Pinot Noir |
| Geography: | 9 Miles east of the Pacific Ocean |
| Climate: | Cool climate with maritime influences and dry mild summers, Average rainfall 22 inches |
| Layout: | Vines 3.5 feet apart, Rows 7 feet apart |
| Cultivation: | Drip Irrigation, Cover crops, VSP Trellis, Low Yields |
Vineyard Development
The vineyard was planted in two stages. One acre was planted in the fall of 1999 and the balance in 2000. A combination of 4 different rootstocks and 6 different clones was chosen to provide a balanced array of fruit to the winery. The blocks are divided into 13 different irrigation zones and all are managed specifically to the variety planted and the goals of the winery. In-row cultivation, cover crops, and vigorous canopy management are used in order to farm in the most sustainable fashion possible. The resulting wine is a true expression of the Carmel Valley AVA with crisp, mineral Chardonnays and elegant Pinot Noirs.