The 2019 Beaulieu Vineyard Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a noteworthy offering from one of Napa Valley's historic producers. This red wine, made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon (85%), with minor contributions from Petit Verdot (10%) and Malbec (5%), showcases the region's characteristic terroir and winemaking expertise. It is bottled with a cork closure and has an alcohol content of 14.9%.
James Suckling awarded this wine a high score of 95, praising its balance and complexity. He described it as “medium-bodied with medium, round tannins that are fresh and more-ish.” Suckling further noted its “dusty and lightly earthy” profile, highlighting dark currants and tobacco flavors. He concluded that the wine offers “so much going on, in a subtle and refreshing way," recommending it for both immediate consumption and aging.
Wine Enthusiast's Jim Gordon also gave the wine an excellent score of 94. He commended its “deep black-fruit flavors, moderate tannins, and a sense of good density.” Gordon identified cloves, cedar, blackberries, and a touch of anise, suggesting that the wine will be at its best between 2026 and 2032.
Wine Spectator rated the 2019 Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon at 92, noting it as “juicy and relatively open-knit.” The review highlighted flavors of blackberry, black cherry, and plum compote, accompanied by hints of licorice and apple wood. The wine was noted for its “nice racy edge through the finish,” and it is recommended to drink now through 2033.
Decanter offered another impressive score of 94, focusing on the wine's “enticing aromas of black cherry, blueberry, black liquorice, coffee, and dried herbs with cedar freshness.” The review praised its “broad and expansive palate” and the presence of “a rich vein of minerals, dried rose petals, tobacco, refreshing acidity and mouthcoating tannins.”
Jeb Dunnuck rated the wine at 93, describing it as “plush, rounded, undeniably delicious.” He emphasized its ripe blue fruits, spicy oak, and hints of chocolate, and praised its “layered, round, incredibly satisfying mouthfeel.” Dunnuck indicated that the wine is enjoyable now but also has the potential to evolve gracefully over the next 10-15 years.
In summary, the 2019 Beaulieu Vineyard Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a well-crafted wine with a strong showing across multiple reviewers. Its complex flavor profile and balanced structure make it a noteworthy choice for both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging.