1977 Beaulieu Vineyard "Georges de Latour" Private Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Coming from the second drought vintage in a row in the 1970s in Napa, although yields were closer to normal this year, the wine spent two years in 50-gallon American oak barrels prior to bottling. The alcohol came in at 13%. Medium tawny-brick colored, the 1977 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve Georges de Latour reveals compelling menthol, smoked meats and Indian spice scents with a core of kirsch, mincemeat pie and new leather plus hints of dried flowers and cast iron pan. Medium-bodied with lovely purity and bold freshness, it features plush, very fine-grained tannins supporting muscular dried berries, finishing on a mineral note. (LPB) (5/2019)

Healthy, moderately saturated medium red. Cherry, minerals and a hint of cedar on the nose, lifted by high-pitched ginger and cinnamon spice notes. A surprisingly piercing style of wine with lovely inner-mouth perfume and lift to its raspberry and floral flavors. This sexy, energetic, classically dry vintage finish with a balsamic cedary quality, nicely integrated tannins and repeating minerality. From a second consecutive drought vintage. (13% alcohol; 6.6 g/l acidity; still no new oak in 1977) (ST) (4/2019)

Chunky, well structured and better than expected. Excellent dark red color, with aromas of plum, cassis and berry and hints of wet earth.Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Still tight; needs time. Not at all drying up. (JS) (2/2000)