This
superb vintage in northern Napa Valley yielded smaller than normal quantities
of Cabernet Sauvignon. It was basically problem free other than relatively
small crops. Some torrid heat in early August created some...
This
superb vintage in northern Napa Valley yielded smaller than normal quantities
of Cabernet Sauvignon. It was basically problem free other than relatively
small crops. Some torrid heat in early August created some problems, but
otherwise it was an even growing season with few difficulties. Beringer’s 1994
Private Reserve came from four vineyard sites, Bancroft Ranch (47%), Tre
Colline, and the balance from Chabot and St. Helena Home Vineyard. A stunning,
seamless Cabernet Sauvignon, it boasts abundant notes of white chocolate, creme
de cassis, woodsmoke, spice box, licorice and forest floor, superb
concentration, a full-bodied mouthfeel, sweet, integrated tannin and admirable
youthfulness as well as freshness. This is one of the most Bordeaux-like wines
in this vertical, with the lead pencil shavings and scorched earth
characteristics pointing toward a Graves style. This beauty will continue to
drink well for another two decades. - Robert Parker