In an effort to provide our collectors with up to date information on our wines, Beringer Chief Winemaker Laurie Hook is delighted to share regular updated tasting notes on Private Reserve Cabernet.
The 2003 vintage got a late start because of a cool, wet spring. Overall, the weather conditions trended on the cool side, with a very damp April. A warm spell during flowering fueled a growth spurt, but as the season progressed and temperatures moderated, it looked as if harvest would be late. Eight-to-ten very warm days in September helped move development along. The grapes for the 2003 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon were handpicked between September 19 and October 28.
PR Cab components: 32% St. Helena Home, 19% Steinhauer Ranch, 12% Bancroft Ranch, 12% Marston, 8% Quarry, 6% Chabot, 6% Rancho del Oso, 3% Bancroft Cabernet Franc, 2% Steinhauer Cabernet
Winemaster Emeritus, Ed Sbragia, Chief Winemaker, Laurie Hook and Assistant Winemaker, Chris Louton share their thoughts as they taste through the Beringer Retrospective. This is a great opportunity to hear what the winemakers say today about the older vintage wines.
Fresh fruit pops right now with blackberry, blueberry, cassis and fruit basket like characteristics
Sweet oak, vanilla and brown spice with brown sugar notes
Rich, ripe tannins
Touch of orange zest off the top and hints of mint and cocoa
1977 
