2017 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

In 1875, the Beringer brothers, Jacob and Frederick, embarked on a remarkable journey from Germany to America, driven by their passion for winemaking. They honed their craft in Germany before arriving in Napa Valley, where Jacob worked at Charles Krug's winery. In 1878, Jacob made a bold move and acquired 200 acres of land from William Daenger. This marked the beginning of the legendary Beringer Winery, nestled near Spring Mountain and the northern edge of St. Helena.

Jacob Beringer's vision led to the construction of the iconic three-story stone house that stands proudly on the estate to this day. In 1884, Frederick joined his brother, and together, they planted Chasselas, Riesling, and Zinfandel. The winery quickly gained prominence, producing over 40,000 cases of wine, a remarkable feat for the time.

Beringer Winery boasts numerous "firsts" in Napa Valley's history, from gravity-fed facilities to hand-dug caves and cellars. They even pioneered public tours in 1934, setting a hospitality standard. Notably, Beringer remains the only winery to have both a red and a white wine named #1 Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator Magazine.

Mark Beringer, the great-great-grandson of the founder, continues the family legacy as the overseer of winemaking. Beringer sources its grapes from the finest vineyards in Knights Valley, St. Helena, and Howell Mountain AVAs, with a special focus on crafting exquisite Cabernet Sauvignon.

Aging: 20 months in New French Oak

Tasting Notes: 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Merlot. A deeply colored and rich wine with substantial backbone and structure will make this 2017 vintage continue to reward after years of careful cellaring. With bright notes of black currant and blackberries and a lush, juicy mouthfeel, this wine is also very approachable in its youth. Complex layers of black fruit and notes of cocoa powder, graphite and light smoky oak mingle well with notes of espresso and vanilla. The ripe tannins support a full structure with balanced acidity leaving a lingering, elegant finish.