Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Vintage

2014 was a dream vintage for the Napa Valley along the lines of the recent outstanding vintages of 2012 and 2013. Although California’s drought brought another dry winter, the growing season started with a warm, dry spring and relatively early bud break. Summer was mild and consistent with even, warm temperatures throughout. The overall outstanding quality and fruit characteristics in this vintage will make Cabernet Sauvignon the highlight of the season.

Appellation Components

62% Howell Mountain, 20% St. Helena, 7% Spring Mountain, 7% Mount Veeder, 4% Calistoga

Varietal Components

97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec

Winemaker

Mark Beringer

Tasting Note

Tasted August, 2017

Open and approachable, with soft and silky tannins, this expression of Private Reserve shows plenty of dark fruit aromas and flavors, with blueberry, blackberry and black cherry much in evidence alongside aromas of violets, licorice and evident oak spice. Wonderful upon release, the wine will reward patient aging for many years.

Accolades

95 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, December 2016
94 pts- Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media, January 2017

Vintage

The 2013 vintage began with a warm, dry spring and relatively early bud break. Summer was notably consistent with even, warm temperatures throughout. Harvest began quite early in August, and by September the majority of whites and lighter reds were completely off the vines. Cool yet sunny weather in October allowed the final grapes on the vine to linger and develop great phenolic and flavor maturities while maintaining steady sugar levels. Overall, it was a high quality crop that was above average in quantity.

Appellation Components

81% Howell Mountain, 11% St. Helena, 4% Calistoga, 4% Mount Veeder

Varietal Components

96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot

Winemaker

Laurie Hook

Tasting Note

Tasted September, 2016

The 2013 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is an exceptional expression of Cabernet Sauvignon from one of the best vintages in years. The enticing aromas of ripe blackberry, boysenberry, fresh tobacco, brown spice and sweet mint are profound in the glass. Dense and well-structured, its supple tannins are complemented by notes of espresso, mocha and balanced with a silky and elegant finish. 

Accolades

97 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, March 2016
95 pts- Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media, October 2015
93 pts- Wine Spectator, November 2016

Vintage

The 2012 vintage began with textbook conditions that continued through much of harvest. Spring bud break was ideal with steady flowering and even fruit set. A lengthy stretch of warm days and cool nights during the summer months allowed for optimal ripeness to develop in the grapes and an exceptional quality overall.

Appellation Components

52% Howell Mountain, 24% St. Helena Home, 14% Rutherford, 7% Spring Mountain, 3% Mount Veeder

Varietal Components

98% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot

Winemaker

Laurie Hook

Tasting Note

Tasted September, 2015

The 2012 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon has complex layers of black fruit and notes of cocoa powder, graphite and light smoky oak. Notes of bittersweet chocolate and blackberry pastry complement its dense structure, plush tannins and lingering finish.

Accolades

96 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, October 2014
95 pts- James Suckling, July 2015

Vintage

The 2011 vintage began with a wet winter and cool spring that delayed bloom and reduced fruit set, resulting in lower yields in many parts of the North Coast region. Cool temperatures delayed ripening by several weeks, a timetable that continued through the cooler-than-usual summer season. Few high heat events occurred at any point in 2011, and growers managed more open vine canopies to ensure sunlight, warmth and good air circulation around the grape clusters. 

Vineyard Components

70% Steinhauer Ranch, 29% St. Helena Home, 1% Steinhauer Ranch Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

99% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Laurie Hook

Accolades

91 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, October 2013
93 pts- Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media, November 2013

Vintage

With few exceptions, the growing season was slightly cooler than normal overall with healthy grapevines throughout Napa Valley. Vintage 2010 welcomed the return of rainfall to the region with annual precipitation averaging about 20% percent above average, but without any incident or flooding. Overall, quantities were lighter in some sites but concentration and quality were excellent owing to a long, cool growing season. 

Vineyard Components

66% St. Helena Home, 18% Chabot, 5% Tournahu (St. Helena), 7% Morisoli (Rutherford), 4% Verhey (Coombsville)

Varietal Components

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker

Laurie Hook

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted September, 2013

The 2010 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon has enticing aromas of ripe blackberry, fresh cedar, anise and sweet mint. Dense and structured, its supple tannins are complemented by notes of espresso, unsweetened cocoa and a balanced, silky finish. 

Accolades

96 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, November 2013
94 pts- Wine Spectator, August 2013
91 pts- Wine Enthusiast, March 2014

Vintage

The 2009 growing season was marked by a mild season overall. Light spring rains gave way to a serene, warm summer. Temperatures stayed even through August, giving the grapes an ideal timeframe in which to develop good acidity and phenolics. Overall yields were on the smaller side, making for intense varietal characteristics and flavor development immediately evident at harvest.  

Vineyard Components

37% St. Helena Home, 23% Lampyridae, 14% Vogt, 11% Chabot, 9% Rancho del Oso (Howell Mountain), 4% Marston, 2% Knights Valley Petit Verdot

Varietal Components

98% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot 

Winemaker

Laurie Hook

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted September, 2012

The 2009 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon presents aromas of ripe blackberry, sweet pastry and espresso, accented by hints of lavender, cedar and graphite. The palate is concentrated and dense with flavors of dark fruit and spice notes. A rich texture and mouth-coating tannins linger in the elegant finish.

Accolades

93 pts- Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate, December 2011
91 pts- Wine Spectator, October 2012
93 pts- Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Vintage

The 2008 growing season began with very cool temperatures in the winter and heavy rains.  A long frost period and dry spring made the 2008 a unique vintage. Rainfall decreased in the spring and warmer temperatures in August and September got harvest rolling in early September with excellent flavor development.

Vineyard Components

78% St. Helena Home, 15% Steinhauer Ranch, 5% Rancho del Oso, 1% Knights Valley Petit Verdot, 1% Frediani (Howell Mountain) Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

98% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot 

Winemaker

Laurie Hook

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted September, 2011

The 2008 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon shows youthful characters of fresh blackberry, black cherry and blueberry, and has bright characteristics of blackberry and blueberry aromas, accented by notes of toast, graphite, cedar and brown spices. The palate is rich and supple with seamless, mouth-coating tannins. The rich, juicy fruit core is highlighted by flavors of cassis, blackberry, sweet cocoa and a light savory note.  A nice acidity lifts the fruit and carries it into a prolonged, pleasing finish. 

Accolades

92 pts- Wine Spectator, February 2011
92 pts- Wine Enthusiast, December 2011

Vintage

The 2007 growing season began with a moderately warm winter, which was followed by a very mild spring and summer.  This prompted an even, steady ripening in the grapes out in the vineyards and nice development of acids, sugars and phenolics. The dryness of the season resulted in smaller berries and clusters, with a notable concentration of flavors. Grapes for the 2007 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon were harvested between September 10 and October 24.

Vineyard Components

34% Bancroft Ranch, 33% Steinhauer Ranch, 8% Chabot, 8% Lampyridae, 6% St. Helena Home, 5% Marston, 3% Rancho del Oso (Howell Mountain), 2% Steinhauer Ranch Cabernet Franc, 1% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Laurie Hook, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Winemaster Emeritus

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted September, 2010

The 2007 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon offers aromas of black currant, star anise and wild mint.  Plush flavors of blackberry, cardamom and bittersweet cocoa are accented by mouth-coating tannins and a luscious finish.  

Accolades

97 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011
91 pts- Wine Spectator, November 2010

Vintage

The 2006 growing season began with a slightly delayed budbreak after quite a bit of Winter and Spring rain.  Summer was moderately warm, with the exception of a heat wave in July that helped speed the growth of the vines.  Mild weather continued through much of harvest, allowing for consistent and deliberate ripening of the grapes. The 2006 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were harvested from September 29 to November 7.

Vineyard Components

32% Bancroft Ranch, 24% Steinhauer Ranch, 19% St. Helena Home, 7% Rancho del Oso (Howell Mountain), 6% Chabot, 6% Marston, 3% Lampyridae, 3% Steinhauer Ranch Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Laurie Hook, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Winemaster Emeritus

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted September, 2009

The final blend has aromas of currant, nutmeg and a hint of licorice.  Flavors of cassis, raspberry and cocoa are surrounded by refined tannins and a remarkably elegant, supple finish. 

Accolades

93+ pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011

Vintage

The 2005 vintage saw winter rains leading into a dry, mild March. Rains late into the growing season delayed bloom and set in the vineyards. A cool summer with few heat spikes followed by a warm September and October delivered nearly perfect conditions.   Harvest was later than usual, providing extended hang time that resulted in excellent sugar development and balanced acids in a larger than average crop. The grapes for the 2005 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon were handpicked between October 12th and November 17th.

Vineyard Components

31% Bancroft Ranch, 25% St. Helena Home, 17% Steinhauer Ranch, 8% Rancho del Oso (Howell Mountain), 7% Marston, 5% Chabot, 2% Lampyridae, 5% Steinhauer Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Laurie Hook, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Winemaster Emeritus

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted September, 2008

The final blend has aromas of Bing cherries, cocoa, cedar, allspice and mint.  Generous cherry, blackberry and plum flavors are complemented by velvety tannins, resulting in a superbly long and elegant finish. 

Accolades

97 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011
91+ pts- Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media, May 2016
93 pts- Wine & Spirits, December 2016. Year's Best Cabernet & Blends.

Vintage

The 2004 vintage got off to a cool start and featured heavy rains towards the end of February, which transitioned into the warmest March on record with temperatures reaching the low 90’s.  The warm weather continued through May but summer months were cooler than normal.   Eight to ten very warm days towards the end of summer helped push maturity.  Ed Sbragia and Winemaker Laurie Hook decided to harvest the majority of the fruit September 11 through October 13 as each block reached the full-flavored maturity they were seeking.  

Vineyard Components

42% Steinhauer Ranch, 18% St. Helena Home, 15% Bancroft Ranch, 11% Marston, 3% Chabot, 3% Rancho del Oso (Howell Mountain), 2% Lampyridae, 6% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Laurie Hook, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Winemaster Emeritus

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted September, 2007

The final blend showcases aromas of black berries, toasty oak, mint, white pepper and cocoa. Black fruit, cassis, caramel, vanilla, brown spices and hints of rose petals coat the palate as ripe supple tannins extend throughout the long finish.

Accolades

95 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, December 2007

Vintage

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.

Vineyard Components

32% St. Helena Home, 19% Steinhauer Ranch, 12% Bancroft Ranch, 12% Marston, 8% Quarry,  6% Chabot, 6% Rancho del Oso (Howell Mountain), 3% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc, 2% Steinhauer Ranch Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Laurie Hook, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Winemaster Emeritus

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

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

Drink or hold?

Hold

Accolades

95 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2013

91 pts- Wine Spectator, July 2013

Vintage

The 2002 growing season started out cold but a warm spell in late March encouraged normal budbreak and flowering in the Cabernet vineyards. Generally cool temperatures continued through most of the summer, resulting in well-developed flavors in the fruit.  Temperatures warmed at harvest in Napa Valley, allowing the grapes to achieve full physiological maturity.  The weather was dry and generally cooler until September when warmer temperatures helped the Cabernet vineyards along in their development, allowing full ripening.  The quality was promising at harvest and Ed was optimistic that the vintage would be very good to excellent.  The grapes for the 2002 Private Reserve were harvested from September 21 to October 16.  

Vineyard Components

48% Steinhauer Ranch, 23% St. Helena Home, 8% Marston Vineyard, 7% Bancroft Ranch, 5% Rancho del Oso (Howell Mountain), 2% Chabot, 5% Steinhauer Ranch Cabernet Franc, 2% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc 

Varietal Components

93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Laurie Hook, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Winemaster Emeritus

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Wonderful luscious fruit
Cassis, black cherry, cedar and dark chocolate aromas
Rich expressions of black fruit, vanilla and brown spices on the palate
Supple tannins linger throughout the extracted and long finish

Accolades

94 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011

Vintage

The 2001 vintage got off to a quick start with warm weather in February and March, which caused bud break and fruit-set to occur 7-10 days earlier than normal.  In early April, temperatures cooled down significantly and slowed the development of the clusters.  Winter and spring rains were below average but were adequate to restore essential moisture in the soils.  Moderate weather conditions through the rest of the growing season helped produce high quality grapes. “The 2001 vintage looked really good from the start—beautiful in fact," explained Bob. The grapes for the 2001 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon were harvested from September 4 through October 10.

Vineyard Components

44% Steinhauer Ranch, 17% Rancho del Oso (Howell Mountain), 17% Marston Vineyard, 13% St. Helena Home, 3% Chabot, 1% Bancroft Ranch, 5% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc 

Varietal Components

95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Laurie Hook, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Winemaster Emeritus

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Intense blackberry, cassis and cocoa
Another big vintage, fairly tannic
A lot of brown spice and blackberry

Accolades

97 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011

Vintage

Overall, the 2000 Napa Valley growing season was very cool and moderate, save for a few advantageous warm spells. Bud-break and fruit-set was normal. Moderately warm, sunny days from June to September kept the clusters’ development on-track through a pleasant summer. As harvest approached, Ed and his winemaking partner, Laurie Hook, decided when to pick individual blocks in each vineyard by flavor. “Because of the cool vintages that preceded 2000, we were especially attentive to what was happening in the vineyards,” explained Laurie. It made for a lot of running around, visiting each site regularly to see how the vines were doing, how the grapes were progressing, etc. And we waited for what seemed like an eternity before we finally made the call to bring each lot in.” Ed concurred: “I think our 2000 Cabs benefited greatly from our time out there. We collaborated with our vineyard team, deciding to thin crop in some areas, and these factors, combined with the added complexity from another year of age on the vines, helped us make a wine that I think is better than our 1999.”

Vineyard Components

63% Steinhauer Ranch, 22% Rancho del Oso (Howell Mountain), 3% St. Helena Home, 2% Bancroft Ranch, 10% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc 

Varietal Components

90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Laurie Hook, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Winemaster Emeritus

Retrospective Tasting Note

January, 2007

Black cherry, black currant
Cedar, sassafras, cocoa, mint, sweet oak spice
Very balanced wine
Less herbal characteristics than 99
Lighter, pretty elegant character

Accolades

91 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011

Vintage

The 1999 growing season was characterized by moderate temperatures and a late beginning that kept all stages of vine and fruit development about three weeks behind normal throughout the spring and summer and then through to harvest.  Rains were moderate during the winter, but hard frosts ensured true dormancy in the vines and thus a healthy start at bud-break.  Vineyard Manager Bob Steinhauer says: "1999 was a very cool growing season overall and it was the coolest September I can remember until the last week when temperatures warmed to the high 90's for six days.  Fortunately, October was absolutely beautiful with moderately warm afternoons and sunny days.  The fruit came in with great flavor from the extended time on the vines, with a very good balance between sugar and acidity.”  

Vineyard Components

52% Tre Colline (Steinhauer), 20% St. Helena Home, 11% Chabot, 10% Rancho del Oso (Howell Mountain), 4% Bancroft Ranch, 4% Tre Colline (Steinhauer) Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia, Winemaster and Laurie Hook, Assistant Winemaker

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Cherry, brown spice, slightly earthy, cedar
Pretty and elegant with sweet fruit
Medium body, good finish

Accolades

93 pts- Wine Spectator, June 2003

Vintage

The 1998 growing season started late as a result of cool, wet weather in the spring, and was prolonged when the cool weather continued into the summer.  Ed, assistant winemaker Laurie Hook and vineyard manager Bob Steinhauer mustered all of their patience to wait for the maturity of flavors and tannins they were seeking and made the decisions when to pick the grapes, vineyard-by-vineyard, block-by-block, often picking areas of a vineyard four or five different times as the clusters completed their development.  In some cases, specifically in Beringer’s Howell Mountain vineyards, inconsistent ripeness occurred and Bob’s team had to be especially selective—ultimately eliminating whole blocks from the possibility of being considered for the Private Reserve. 

Vineyard Components

28% Tre Colline, 24% Chabot, 23% St. Helena Home, 14% Bancroft Ranch, 11% Marston 

Varietal Components

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia, Winemaster and Laurie Hook, Assistant Winemaker

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007 

Vanilla and cedar in the nose
Sweet cocoa, chocolate cherries, bing cherries, mint and slight herbal
Soft, elegant and fruit forward – great drinking upon release
Beautiful flavors, so approachable
Note: in blind tastings collectors often pick 98 over the 97 & 96 vintages

Accolades

89 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011

Vintage

Vintage 1997 was recognized as exceptional within a decade of outstanding vintages, producing wines of deep concentration and rich tannins that promise longevity. Moderate temperatures prevailed throughout the early-starting and early-ending growing season, with no periods of intense heat. Very light rains on one day in August and another day in September had no damaging effects, especially on the thick-skinned red varietals.  The grapes achieved complete phenolic maturity, with fully developed flavor compounds, color and tannins.  The yields were generous, as were the flavors.  Said vineyard manager Bob Steinhauer, “everyone seems to have focused on the size of the crop, but I’ve been more impressed with the quality.  We saw spectacular fruit across the varietals.”  

Vineyard Components

34% Tre Colline (Steinhauer), 19% Chabot, 19% St. Helena Home, 16% Bancroft, 9% Marston, 3% Tre Colline (Steinhauer) Cabernet Franc, 1% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc 

Varietal Components

96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia, Winemaster and Laurie Hook, Assistant Winemaker

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Another big vintage
Berry, cassis, sweet herb character (bay leaf)
Cocoa, anise and toasted marshmallow
Flashier on release, firm tannins, slightly tight now, but a lot of flavor intensity

Accolades

95 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011

Vintage

In the 1996 growing season, rains at the bloom period in May resulted in a light crop and loose clusters.  Then a sustained period of higher-than-normal temperatures in August meant that the berries stopped growing when they were still quite small.  Both of these conditions heighten fruit flavors, further intensifying the already concentrated nature of the Cabernet grapes in both the Howell Mountain and St. Helena AVAs.  Following a period of excellent fall weather, harvest began relatively early, even at the higher elevations of Bancroft and Tre Colline vineyards (both at about 1,800 feet).  The grapes for this wine were harvested from September 23 through October 19, as the grapes ripened in the individual vineyard blocks.  In these reserve Cabernet vineyards, says vineyard manager Bob Steinhauer, the grapes may be harvested in as many as five passes to ensure optimal maturity for each cluster.

Vineyard Components

52% Tre Colline (Steinhauer), 27% Bancroft, 9% St. Helena Home, 8% Chabot, 4% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc 

Varietal Components

96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Lots of cocoa, cedar, brown sugar, blackberry & sweet spices
Sweet tobacco and mint, with candied violets, vanilla
Luscious, long, rich finish
Pretty fruit and elegant

Accolades

91 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, December 1998

Vintage

After a cool, rainy beginning, the 1995 growing season turned out to be excellent in the Napa Valley.  Yields were lowered by wet weather that delayed the flowering season and by reduced set.  However, cool conditions in the evenings and early mornings lengthened the growing season and allowed time for the development of rich flavors and deep colors.  “The growing season was long,” explained winemaker Ed Sbragia, “but patience brought success.”  The grapes for this wine were handpicked from October 9 through November 6, as the grapes reached optimal maturities block by block in the selected vineyards. The long harvest period reflects the individual maturation rates in the vineyards’ varied soils and microclimates.

Vineyard Components

37% Tre Colline (Steinhauer), 34% Bancroft Ranch, 19% Chabot, 7% St. Helena Home, 3% Tre Colline (Steinhauer) Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Warm spices, cedar, mushroom, forest floor, blackberry, and coco-mint
“I think the 95 is just smoking!” - Ed
Earthy and floral notes
Intense and yet elegant

Drink or hold?

Drink or hold

Accolades

96 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011
Tied for First Place at the 2006 Judgement of Sauternes Blind Tasting against 40 highly respected first growth Bordeaux and California Cult Cabernets
93 pts- Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media, July 2016

Vintage 

With growing conditions that have been described as “pristine,” the 1994 vintage yielded smaller than normal quantities of Cabernet Sauvignon, but both color and flavors were dense and concentrated.  Low winter rainfalls reduced the moisture levels at the season’s start, and moderate temperatures throughout the spring and summer, with temperatures as low as the 40s at night, extended the season. A warm spell in the first two weeks in August further intensified the fruit flavors as the grapes ripened. The grapes for this wine were harvested from September 27 through October 31. The long duration of the harvest reflects the block-by-block picking that took place as the grapes reached optimal maturity in the four vineyards.

Vineyard Components

47% Bancroft Ranch, 20% Tre Colline, 18% Chabot, 12% St. Helena Home, 3% Tre Colline (Steinhauer) Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Spice, cherry, touch of plum
Cedar, mocha, brown spice, white pepper
Rich intense flavors and long finish

Accolades

97 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011

Vintage 

Much-needed rain in the early spring of 1993 brought an end to five years of drought in Napa Valley, and cool conditions prevailed during the spring.  Because rain occurred during berry set, yields were lower than normal, but warmer than normal temperatures toward the end of summer allowed for optimal ripening of the grapes during a very prolonged harvest season.  The grapes for this wine were harvested from mid-October through mid-November.  

Vineyard Components

62% Bancroft Ranch, 24% St. Helena Home, 11% Tre Colline (Steinhauer), 2% Bancroft Cabernet Franc, 1% Tre Colline (Steinhauer) Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia 

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Tobacco, deep, dark syrup, black fruit, ripe cherries, coco, dried herbs and spice
Nice acid balance and firm tannins
Lots of blackberry, cherry and cherry cola
Mushroom at the beginning, then toffee, candy character

Accolades

93 pts- Wine Spectator, May 1997
93 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011

Vintage 

The 1992 vintage was an excellent one overall. A long, cool growing season was followed by an ideal summer with foggy mornings, sunny days and cool evenings. All of these factors resulted in excellent sugar and acid development in the grapes.  

Vineyard Components

57% Bancroft Ranch, 21% State Lane, 14% St. Helena Home, 5% Chabot, 3% Bancroft Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Lush, ripe fruit
Pretty, elegant wine
Aromas more subdued than in the past
Nice balance between fruit and oak
Cedar, into and coffee, covers the palette with black fruit
Nice long aftertaste

Accolades

96 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, December 1995

Vintage 

The 1991 growing season was one of the longest and coolest in memory. Cool temperatures throughout the summer led to an unusually late harvest. Fortunately, dry, sunny days were norm in September and October when Beringer’s Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were harvested. 

Vineyard Components

40% Bancroft Ranch, 30% St Helena Home, 27% Chabot, 3% Bancroft Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Gorgeous, but it’s a baby (still youthful)
Chocolate and spice, blackberry, black cherry, cassis, mint, licorice and cedar
Intense flavors, firm tannins and good structure

Accolades

96 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011

Vintage 

The 1990 growing season in the Napa Valley began with much-needed rain in January and February, although seasonal averages remained below normal. A later-than-usual bud break was offset by an unseasonably warm May, which prompted flowering and a healthy set of grapes. The summer months brought on beautiful grape growing weather, with warm, sunny days, cool nights and no precipitation. The grapes matured slowly on the vines in June, July and August. Light showers in late August caused some concern among grower, but a quick return to dry, warm weather in September and October mean ideal conditions for harvesting Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.

Vineyard Components

47% Bancroft Ranch, 27% Chabot, 25% St. Helena Home, 1% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

99% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker 

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Lighter than Ed remembers it
Dark fruit jamminess, yet fruit is subdued compared to past
Pine, cedar, peppery, cocoa, mint, spicy, savory, menthol and tertiary flavors
Hibernating right now, best to hold

Accolades

94 pts- Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, June 2011

Vintage 

Although the 1989 growing season in Napa Valley began with a dry January and February, rains in March and April brought much needed moisture to grapevines and provided adequate water for frost protection. Bud break, bloom and fruit set occurred on schedule, and warm dry weather in June, July and August allowed the grapes to slowly reach maturity. September rainfall did not affect Cabernet Sauvignon, which was picked in October when the weather was again seasonably warm and dry.

Vineyard Components

35% Chabot, 25% Bancroft Ranch, 22% St. Helena Home, 18% State Lane

Varietal Components 

96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Merlot

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Been known as a tannic and tough vintage
Earthy leather, forest floor, roasted artichoke, savory
Somewhat subdued aromas, but mouthcoating blackberry
Tannins are a bit dry

Accolades

91 pts- Wine Spectator, August 1999

Vintage 

The 1988 growing season began with a much needed rainy January, followed by a very dry February with mild growing temperatures. The unusually warm dry days of March influenced an early bud break. All indicators showed that soil moisture was sufficient and Napa Valley reservoirs full with enough water reserve for normal April and May frost protection. An early frost threat in May caused some alarm, but no damage to the vines. The month of July brought warmer than normal temperatures, which contributed to a small crop of loose clustered grapes. Conditions improved in September for harvest, and through strict selection, only the finest quality fruit was picked for this wine.

Vineyard Components

34% State Lane, 27% Chabot, 20% Bancroft Ranch, 19% St. Helena Home, 2% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

98% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Mushroom, savory characters
Cedar, dried herb and slight licorice
Opens up and shows blackberry and vanilla
Finish a bit short, lighter vintage

Accolades

88 pts- Wine Spectator, 1995

Vintage 

The 1987 growing season began with a cold, dry winter and gave way to a dry, warm spring.  A very moderate summer and warm August and September gave the grapes ideal time to ripen and develop in phenolics. It was an excellent harvest overall. One of Ed Sbragia's favorites.

Vineyard Components

56% Bancroft Ranch, 25% Chabot, 13% St. Helena Home, 6% State Lane 

Varietal Components

93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Such a big vintage, classic California vintage
Still tannic, everything’s intact
Dark black fruit core with lots of spice, cedar, white pepper, menthol and rich cocoa

Accolades

94 pts- Wine Spectator, 1995

Vintage 

Another superb vintage yielded ripe, full-bodied, well-structured wines. An extended growing season began with the earliest bud break in recent history, followed by warm temperatures through March and April, cool temperatures that enhanced flavor development through the summer, and then warm temperatures again in time for full maturity at harvest. For the first time, wines produced from the Bancroft Ranch Vineyard, including 1 percent of Cabernet Franc, were added to the Private Reserve along with wines from Chabot, State Lane and St. Helena Home vineyards.

Vineyard Components

42% St Helena Home, 23% State Lane, 21% Bancroft Ranch, 14% Chabot, 1% Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Franc

Varietal Components

99% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Dried cherry, sundried tomatoes, leather, minty, peppery qualities, soy
Dried herbs, maple/ unsulfured molasses, caramelized sugar
Tasted it in 2000 and it is doing better now, much more classic vintage (less California-ish)

Accolades

#1 Wine of the Year- Wine Spectator, 1990

97 pts- Wine Spectator, 1995

Vintage 

The 1985 growing season began with cold, dry weather which gave way to a warm, mild winter with slightly below average rainfall. Fine growing conditions prevailed throughout early spring with higher than normal temperatures characterizing the first two weeks of April. Late spring was marked by temperatures in the 70's and 80's which continued into a warm, dry summer, giving every indication of an excellent harvest. Mid-summer's warmth was reversed by cooler growing conditions- days of moderate temperatures and minimal precipitation. Late summer resembled an early fall, with total rainfall of 1.08 inches. Harvest began under excellent conditions with Indian summer weather that slowly brought grapes to maturity- creating a harvest that is considered better than '78 and '84.

Vineyard Components

39% State Lane, 33% Chabot, 28% St. Helena Home

Varietal Components

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

"Yummy”, with cedar, leather, berry and dark, bitter chocolate
Rich, round luscious with blackberry and chocolate coated espresso beans
Longtime vineyard Manager Bob Steinhauer’s favorite vintage – he and Ed used to argue over who got this one

Accolades

97 pts- Wine Spectator, 1995

Vintage 

At the time, this was considered the best vintage for Cabernet Sauvignon in the Napa Valley since 1978.  Warm to hot temperatures led to an early harvest that yielded big, ripe wines. 

Vineyard Components

45% St. Helena Home, 29% State Lane, 22% Chabot, 4% Laird

Varietal Components

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Dried cranberry, cocoa, licorice, sweet spice aroma
Very jammy vintage for first 15 years, now lots of dried cherries and a bit more grip–chewier tannins accentuated right now
Good balance between fruit and cedar

Accolades

94 pts- Wine Spectator, 1995

Vintage 

By early spring 1983, the Napa Valley had recorded its highest annual rainfall in history, more than twice normal at over 73 inches. Bud break occurred during Easter week, after which the season went from winter to a rather "spring-like" summer. Temperatures remained ideal with high temperatures being recorded mid-July for a three day period. Light rain fell in late August, causing widespread concern for the 1983 harvest. Warm weather arrived in the first two weeks of September, bringing to ripeness many of the varietals. Mid-September brought recurring light rainfall, followed by a perfect Indian summer for nearly the entire month of October.
In spite of the spotty early rains of the 1983 growing season, our winemaster, veteran of many California harvests, together with our vineyard manager's ten year experience, combined their talents and expertise to insure a quality harvest. Experience, timing, and labor-intensive selective picking combined to yield what has proved to be superb wines.

Vineyard Components

39% St. Helena Home, 32% Chabot, 29% State Lane

Varietal Components

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia, Winemaster and Myron Nightingale

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

One of the lighter vintages and lowest in tannins we've ever put in bottle, and had bright ruby color
Great balance between fruit and oak
Leather, earth, cassis, mint, cocoa, sundried tomato
Black fruit core and nice long finish

Accolades

89 pts- Wine Spectator, 1995

Vintage 

A very wet winter and spring and cool weather in July and August that slowed the ripening of the fruit made for a difficult vintage. The crop was above normal in size, despite rain during harvest. The latest ripening Cabernet Sauvignon produced wines of good flavor and color extract. 

Vineyard Components

40% State Lane, 30% Lemmon-Chabot, 25% St. Helena Home, 5% Knights Valley

Varietal Components

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia, Winemaster and Myron Nightingale

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Has lots of time left, yet showing very nicely right now
Cherry, cassis, “Brambleberry", bit of licorice with sweet tanning
Still tastes young, certain elegance about it
“I always liked this vintage” – ed (rainy vintage)
Showing very nicely

Accolades

91 pts- Wine Spectator, 1995

Vintage

The 1981 growing season began after a mild winter which permitted an early bud push in late February. The Napa Valley also experienced five light frosts that were met with successful preventative measures early in the season. A warming trend in May punctuated by light rains accelerated grape maturity.
The warmer than normal summer resulted in an early harvest. This, however, is not to say that it was a short growing season but rather one in which split second decision making offers a good challenge for the experienced vintner. When tasting our 1981 Napa Valley Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, one understands how well Beringer met that challenge.

Vineyard Components

65% State Lane, 20% Lemmon-Chabot, 15% Knights Valley

Varietal Components

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker

Ed Sbragia, Winemaster and Myron Nightingale

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Ed Sbragia “One of the biggest, baddest wines we ever put in the bottle”
Chalky, toffee, black olive, blackberry
Grippiness level steps up
Menthol & cedar with savory at the end

Accolades

91 pts- Wine Spectator, 1995

Vintage

1980 will be long-remembered in the Napa Valley. Encouraged by a mild winter and a warm spring, early budbreak ushered in what would prove to be a long season. Following a nice bloom period with a good set, a strong cropload began the maturation process. Below-average temperatures and lingering morning fogs slowed the growing season, and a harvest which was expected to be two weeks early came two weeks late. Long range forecasts for early fall rains plagued the thoughts of local vintners and, for awhile, the outlook was poor. However, in late September and into October, a burst of Indian summer ripened the grapes quickly. Sugar levels were raised optimally without losing the desired acids. 

Beringer bottled separate Private Reserves, both 100-percent Cabernet Sauvignon, from two vineyards: Lemmon-Chabot and State Lane.

Vineyard Components

100% State Lane

Varietal Components

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker

Myron Nightingale, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Assistant Winemaker

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Sundried tomatoes, leather, soy, earth, caramelized Maui onion
Dusting of cocoa powder and slight smokiness and herbal character
Sweetness in mid-palate and juicy fruit
Bright, but vertical and angular

Accolades

90 pts- Wine Spectator, February 2001

We did not make a Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon in 1979.

Vintage Note

Widely considered among the best California vintages of the 1970s, this year saw above-average temperatures just before and throughout the harvest, which sent the sugars soaring.  The resulting wines were ripe, rich and dense, with evident aging potential.  

Vineyard Components

100% Lemmon Ranch (Chabot Vineyard)

Varietal Components

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker

Myron Nightingale, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Assistant Winemaker

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Always been one of Ed’s favorites
Earthy, minty, cassis, cherry, dried mushroom, orange ring and chocolate finish
Hints of black licorice, mineral, pepper

Accolades

95 pts, Wine Spectator, 1995

Vintage 

In this second year of a two-year drought, many of the Napa Valley's vines were stressed, yielding a small crop of intensely concentrated wines with good balance and aging potential. 1977 was the first year Beringer acquired Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from the Lemmon Ranch (later called Chabot Vineyard). Myron and Ed knew they had the makings of a distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon in a big, rich style, and they kept the lot separate from grapes from other vineyards.

Vineyard Components

100% Lemmon Ranch (Chabot Vineyard)

Varietal Components

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker

Myron Nightingale, Winemaker and Ed Sbragia, Assistant Winemaker

Retrospective Tasting Note

Tasted January, 2007

Showing beautifully right now, yet still has time
Has improved since last time we tasted
Suggest use an ah-so to open
Eucalyptus, leather, soy, cocoa, coffee, tobacco, earth mint, spice
Less noticeable fruit in aroma, but still has lots of black fruit in mouth with brown sugar and cherries in background
Nice long finish

Accolades

88 pts- Wine Spectator, 1995