i need information on beringer cab/sauvignon napa valley private reserve 1986 and 1987,is it a good buy at $75.00 per 750 btl? and has any one tasted the wine lately?

thanks

alex

I recently had two 1995 Beringer PR Cabs, purchased at the winery and properly stored since purchase -- both were undergoing some sort of secondary fermentation in the bottle and were undrinkable. Not that 1995 is the same as 1985, but... it was very disappointing nonetheless.

17 yrs, isn't that definitely past its peak? I wouldn't buy it unless you're opening it on your way home.

Here are the reviews from the WS database. The '87 sounds like a winner for sure. The '86 may be sliding down the other side of the hill, but you may have caught it just in time:

Winery: Beringer
Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Private Reserve 1987
Score: 97

Price: $40
Country: California
Region: Napa
Issue: Dec 15, 1997

Dark, ripe, intense and opulent, this is a remarkably complex and youthful wine. It serves up layers of currant, berry, chocolate, mint, herb and spice, finishing with firm yet supple tannins. Ready to drink, but worthy of cellaring.--1987 California Cabernet horizontal. Best from 2000 through 2010. (JL)


Winery: Beringer
Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Private Reserve 1986
Score: 95

Cellar Selection
Price: $70
Country: California
Region: Napa
Issue: Sep 15, 1990

Deliciously rich and concentrated, the layers of herb, mint, cherry and plum flavors are tightly wound together and framed by toasty oak and firm tannins. Elegant and stylish, this beautifully proportioned wine echoes fruit and oak. Drink now through 2001. 4,000 cases made.
Search for user tasting notes
Winery: Beringer
Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Private Reserve 1987
Score: 94