WTN: Private Investigations

[David M. Bueker]

• 1993 Beringer Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve - USA, California, Napa Valley (2/3/2025)
  From my late father's cellar, this was about as close to a perfect result as I could ever expect. A prior bottle had been well past its best, but this one redeemed everything with its deep, matured fruit, softened tannin, and long, velvety finish. Classic in scale, it has matured as typical for outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon, with that extra touch of cushioning that comes from the sunny California climate. 1993 gets a bad rap sometimes, but it holds up very well, and shows what a balanced vintage can give (or could 30+ years ago).

Dad was a big fan of Dire Straits.

Good to see that note - I have a 5 vintage vertical from the 90s I want to pull out this summer, and I agree that these wines show really well and age gracefully. When a particular bottle has sentimental value it certainly adds to the experience of drinking it, too! Nice that your bottle showed so well.

[David M. Bueker]

You are likely to get great enjoyment from your vertical. I have also opened the 1995 and 1996 in recent months, and both were amazing.

[Jenise]

Bill opened a '92 for us and a few friends a few short months ago--was pretty splendid!

[David M. Bueker]

No doubt. There’s a single 1992 in the stash from dad’s cellar.