Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
A pinnacle expression of Napa Valley winemaking, showcasing the renowned craftsmanship of Beringer Vineyards. Crafted from meticulously selected vineyards and aged with precision, this wine represents the epitome of the Private Reserve series. A testament to Beringer's legacy, the 2018 vintage captivates with its depth, complexity, and the unmistakable terroir of the Napa Valley.
Winemaker Notes
Deeply saturated in color with a rich depth and elegance, exhibiting a substantial backbone and structure, all hallmarks of this incredible 2018 vintage of Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, and will continue to reward after years of carful cellaring. Fresh, ripe berry notes of blackberry, black cherry, crème de cassis and dark plum all combine, offering a plush, juicy, mouthwatering character that is very approachable in its youth. Complex layers of wild bramble berry fruit, wild violets and notes of cocoa powder, dark chocolate, graphite and tobacco spice, from the well-integrated oak, seamlessly are interwoven with the full-bodied ripe tannins, supporting a firm structure with balanced acidity, leading to a long, persistent, textured finish.
Professional Ratings
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98 James Suckling
Wild blackberry, cassis, dark chocolate, tobacco and dark spice on the nose. Dried violets, too. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, powdery tannins and a creamy texture. Intense, yet restrained and refined, with a solid core of dark berries and bitter chocolate. Really focused and crafted with exemplary Napa cabernet character. Try from 2024.
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97 Jeb Dunnuck
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve is based on 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% each of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, brought up in 90% new French oak. It’s a beautiful wine that shows the vintage’s pure, elegant, yet concentrated style perfectly. Gorgeous crème de cassis, violets, blueberries, and cedar pencil notes emerge from the glass, and this beauty builds incrementally on the palate, with full-bodied richness, a lively, pure, layered texture, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It can be enjoyed any time over the coming 20-25 years.
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97 Tasting Panel
One of California's marquee wines, this expres- sion doesn't disappoint, coating the tongue in velvet while delivering a combination of ripe plum, toasty new oak, spice, and hints of chocolate and fresh-baked bread. Balanced, long, and stunning.
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95 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve is a blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple in color, it opens with subtle notes of fresh blackberries, mulberries and crushed blackcurrants, plus emerging hints of redcurrant jelly, bay leaves, unsmoked cigars and cedar chest. Full-bodied, rich and plush, it delivers mouth-coating black fruits and loads of savory layers with plenty of freshness and great length. Rating: 95+
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92 Wine Spectator
Dark in profile, but fresh, with vibrant black currant and black cherry preserve flavors laced with streaks of violet, iron and tobacco. Shows good energy throughout. Best from 2022 through 2032.
Tasting Notes
In the glass, the Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 displays a deep, inky hue, promising a wine of substance. The nose is an aromatic revelation, with layers of blackberries, cassis, and dark chocolate, complemented by subtle hints of cedar and vanilla. On the palate, the wine unfolds with power and grace, offering flavors of ripe plum, black cherry, and a touch of espresso. The velvety tannins contribute to a well-structured and harmonious mouthfeel, leading to a long and lingering finish marked by notes of blackcurrant and spice.
Food Pairing
Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is a perfect companion to bold and flavorful dishes. Pair it with a perfectly grilled ribeye steak, slow-roasted lamb, or a rich beef stew to complement the wine's robust character. The wine's dark fruit and spice notes also make it a delightful match for aged cheeses, such as Gouda or blue cheese. Consider experimenting with pairings that highlight the wine's complexity, such as dark chocolate desserts or a savory mushroom risotto.
Overall
Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is a jewel in the crown of Napa Valley Cabernets, representing the culmination of vineyard excellence and winemaking mastery. Its powerful yet elegant profile showcases the best of what the region has to offer, making it a timeless choice for enthusiasts seeking a profound and memorable wine. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for further development, Beringer Private Reserve 2018 invites wine lovers to indulge in the sophistication and richness that define the highest echelons of Napa Valley winemaking. Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of this extraordinary vintage—a true expression of Beringer's commitment to excellence.