Coming fom The Californian Wine Icon Beringer this wine saw its first light in 1977. When Beringer first acquired Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from Lemmon Ranch (later called Chabot Vineyard), the winemakers knew they had the makings of a distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon.

After two years in French oak barrels, the wine was still dark, chewy and tannic. Even bottle aging didn't soften its intensity.

In the 1981 Orange County Fair, it won a gold medal as the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the show, and the limited amount produced was released as Beringer's first Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. The 1986 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon was named the #1 Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator.

This 2009 edition is still a reflection of the wine made in 1977. The 2009 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon presents aromas of ripe blackberry, sweet pastry and espresso, accented by hints of lavender, cedar and graphite. The palate is concentrated and dense with flavors of dark fruit and spice notes. A rich texture and mouth-coating tannins linger in the elegant finish.

Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029.