2003 Beringer "Private Reserve" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
SKU #1041699
95 points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The best wine of this group is the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve. For statisticians, the composition includes 32% from the St. Helena Home Vineyard, 19% from the Steinhauer Ranch, 12% from Marston Vineyard, 12% from Bancroft Ranch, 8% from the Quarry Vineyard, 6% from Rancho del Oso, 6% from Chabot, 3% from Bancroft, and 2% from Steinhauer Ranch. All these grapes were hand-picked between September 19 and October 28. This is a winner that is seemingly just entering its plateau of full maturity. It boasts a dense ruby/purple color along with a sweet bouquet of black currants, creme de cassis, chocolate fudge, subtle barbecue scents, and hints of lavender, forest floor and tobacco leaf. Full-bodied, rich and dense, it is a classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, as it has been in just about every vintage. The acidity is relatively low, and the 14.1% alcohol is average for a ripe Napa Cabernet. The pH is 3.71, which is just above average. This is a full-bodied, multidimensional red wine that should continue to drink well for at least another 10-15 years. (RP)
(6/2013)
91 points
Wine Spectator
Complex on the palate, firm, intense, vibrant and a touch dry, with drying tannins. The core dark berry flavors are deep and persistent, gaining on the finish. (JL, Web Only-2013)