1987 Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve

The 1987 Reserve is a worthy competitor to the terrific 1986. The 1987's dark ruby/garnet color is followed by a super bouquet. There are huge aromas of chocolate, spicy new oak, herbs, cassis and tobacco in this beautifully scented wine. In the mouth, it is full-bodied, voluptuous, spicy, and crammed with fruit, glycerin, and enough tannin to support 15-16 years of cellaring. Like the 1986, the tannins are soft, and, fortunately, the acids are not shrill enough to prevent immediate drinkability. This is a skillfully made, complex Cabernet Sauvignon that will not linger long on retailers' shelves. Beringer continues to do everything right. Its staff of talented professionals may rank as the best in the business. Since 1984, its Private Reserve Cabernets have been among the top dozen Cabernets produced in California and are not likely to stumble over the next several years.

Bright ruby-red. Lively, perfumed aromas of cassis, raspberry and spicy oak. Pretty, focused and sappy in the mouth, with an impressively fresh raspberry flavor. Offers very good balance and structure, though it seemed to grow a bit harder as it opened in the glass. Finishes very long, with ripe, fine tannins.