For the month of November, my Wine of the Month choice is Beaulieu Vineyards (BVs) Georges De Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (2019). BV is my second favorite winery in Napa Valley, my favorite is Beringer (which I will profile later). So why BV, because they really have been killing it for the last 5 years; getting their wines to compete on par with the BEST Napa Cabs, which is saying quite a bit. But, before you start getting all excited, remember that this is a top of the line Napa Cab, so it will cost $200.00 or more, unless you buy it directly from the winery (which you can do over the internet). This would put it at the high end of Reggie III’s price range, which may be too high for some of you. Don’t worry, there’s a less expensive version that I will talk about below. Clinton Wine & Spirits does not carry this wine, but they do have an excellent Caymus Cab Sauv. Many large wine stores or warehouses will carry it.
The 2019 Georges De Latour Private Reserve is 91% Cabernet Sauvignon & 9% Petit Verdot. How can they call it a Cabernet Sauvignon, if it’s not 100%? According to North American Wine Law, 75% grape variety is the minimum requirement. As long as we are on the subject, 85% is the minimum for region (AVA) and 95% is the minimum for vintage (year). Most major wine producing countries have similar numbers, based on their wine laws. Of course, we have the French to thank for getting this all started. Additionally, this bottle was rated by James Suckling as the #1 Wine of 2022, giving it a perfect score of 100. Although Wine Spectator did not quite agree, they did rate BV’s “straight” Cab Sauv. (no Private Reserve) as the #1 Value Wine of 2022, which is pretty impressive. This bottle retails comfortably in Steve’s price range, making it much more affordable.
As far as tasting notes go: on the nose you will notice dark berry fruit (black raspberry, red currant, & black cherry). There may also be a hint of lavender or rose. Because of the aging for 20 months in French oak (95% new), you will get caramel, cedar, & clove. Additionally, on the palate you will get the classic Cab graphite (or pencil shavings), along with espresso, and earth. This is a fresh, full-bodied wine, with balanced acidity (6.0g/L; pH 3.73). It is a classic Napa Cab that can be drunk now, but will age (and improve) for at least 10 years. 2018 was the best year in the last 10 for Napa Cabs, but for some reason BV’s 2019 was even better. Many high end restaurants, with a separate Wine Menu, will carry BV’s George De Latour. You will pay for the privilege, but I think it’s worth it; especially if they have the 2018 or 2019. For December, I promise to go back to a more reasonably priced wine.
That should do it for Blog Post #11. Next week will be another easy main course Food & Wine post. Cheers!
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