Private reserve represents the pinnacle of the Beringer portfolio.

Former chief winemakers Myron Nightingale and Ed Sbragia created the program in 1977 with the goal of crafting Napas finest cabernet sauvignon. Laurie Hook carried on the tradition for 15 years before transitioning to winemaker emeritus in 2015. The Steinhauer vineyard, part of the private reserve cuvee since 1993, provides the foundation (30%) for the 2012 blend. A significant portion (17%) comes from Bancroft ranch and another portion (17%) comes from the St. Helena home vineyard, part of the original acreage that founders Jacob and Frederick Beringer purchased in 1875. Hook also chose some select lots from the Rutherford appellation to include in the 2012 blend as she particularly liked the broad dense and classic cabernet characteristics that the appellation is known for. It all adds up to a phenomenal wine, one of the best of the 2012 vintage or any vintage.