Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley(2004)

vineyard expressions into a well-balanced, full-flavored whole. In any vintage, Ed's goal with the Private Reserve is to make a wine that is greater than the sum of its parts. With Cabernet of this quality, Ed believes in taking a minimalist approach to winemaking. Vinifying the fruit from each vineyardseparately, Ed and his long-time winemaking partner Laurie Hook usedtailored pump-over techniques for optimal extraction, and then aged thewines in hand-selected, custom-toasted barrels of new French Nevers oakfrom coopers with whom they have long-established relationships. Thewinemakers put the wines through 100-percent malolactic fermentationfor added complexity and softness, and aged them just over two yearsbefore Ed selected the blend that he felt layers the personalities of thevineyards into a harmonious whole. The final blend showcases aromasof black berries, toasty oak, mint, white pepper and cocoa. Black fruit,cassis, caramel, vanilla, brown spices and hints of rose petals coat thepalate as ripe supple tannins extend throughout the long finish.    (hide)