2005 Beringer "Private Reserve" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon saline finish

saline finish

Sweet black currant and blueberry fruit intermixed with spring flower

earth and tobacco flavors

the wine is dense

A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc

2005 Beringer "Private Reserve" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon saline finishA great vintage of Private Reserve, this reflects the sensibilities of two winemakers: Ed Sbragia, who has shepherded the blend for three decades, and Laurie Hook, who joined Sbragia in 1986. Hook's influence on the Beringer style has been subtle but significant over the past several years. The tightness of this wine and the more overt minerality in its tannin provide a defined arc of flavor, with firmer edges than often appeared in the smooth, sleek