2022 Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve

Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve 2022 - Napa Valley's Oldest Cabernet Sauvignon

Napa's Original Cult Classic - First Napa Cult Wine, with legendary winemaker André Tchelistcheff ("The Maestro"). It is Napa Valley's oldest Cabernet Sauvignon, first released in 1936. Located on the legendary St. Helena Highway (next to Opus One & Robert Mondavi Winery). Owned by Treasury Wine Estates (Penfold's). This 2022 vintage is a blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot. The wine is rich, layered, structured, and well-suited for extended aging.

The bouquet is intense, with fragrant notes of wild sage, blackcurrant, cedarwood, and fresh mint. The palate is expansive and full-bodied, with a lush mouthfeel combining layers of ripe blackberry, red currant, and rose petals with earthy notes of graphite, licorice root, stone dust, and dark chocolate. Subtle spices from the French oak barrels provide hints of sandalwood, clove, and cinnamon, while the signature Rutherford Dust tannins are silky, polished, and finely grained, with a long finish and a cocoa powder texture. Although somewhat reserved upon release, this wine is already exceptionally drinkable, elegant, and enjoyable. The tannins provide beautiful balance and accessibility. This Private Reserve has a distinct presence, depth, and concentration, heralding cellar potential that will continue to unfold and develop in the coming decades.

Part of the wine was fermented in new French oak barrels, which ensured early integration and enhanced the dense, rich texture. The remainder of the must was fermented in stainless steel and concrete tanks, preserving the freshness of the grapes. After extended skin contact, the wine was pressed and returned to barrels for malolactic fermentation and aging. A small amount of Petit Verdot was blended with the Cabernet Sauvignon to further enhance the wine's aroma and flavor profile. They work very closely with barrel producers, ensuring the style and consistency of the barrel are just right.

Ratings: 96 James Suckling, 95 Decanter, 94 Jane Anson

FACT: The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount . You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at checkout. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.