Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Production: 14,700 cases; Alcohol: 14.46%; Blend: 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc; Harvest Dates: September 9 to October 6 Made from a blend of fruit from four vineyards, Bancroft Ranch (57%), State Lane (now known as the Kapcsandy Vineyard) (21%), St. Helena Home Vineyard (14%) and Chabot (5%), 1992’s growing season was in total contrast to the preceding vintages. It was warm, even hot, with early bud break and some unusual rain in June. However, the following months were super-dry and hot, which caused an early start to the harvest. It turned out to be a classic Napa vintage in its exuberance and rich fruit. Although totally dry, it reveals a sweeter style with higher alcohol and glycerin and an impression of unctuosity and viscosity. While it does not exhibit the complexity of either the 1990 or 1991, it possesses a dense purple color along with a sexy, up-front, effusive, flamboyant style. Tasted by itself, I may have scored it higher, but in the context of the vertical tasting, it is dominated by such vintages as 1990, 1991, 1994, 1995 and 1997.
As California's longest continuously operating winery, Beringer has been defining Napa Valley winemaking since it was founded by Jacob and Frederick Beringer in 1876. By continuing that pioneering spirit, Beringer established many 'firsts' as leaders in the wine industry. They were one of the first gravity fed facilities and among the first to operate using hand dug caves and cellars. Beringer were the first to give public tours in 1934, starting a Napa Valley hospitality tradition. They are the first and only winery to have both a red and a white wine named #1 Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator Magazine. Today, they proudly celebrate and remain true to their pioneering legacy.
One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris.
Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.