At a glance

Producer

Beringer Vineyards

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon (predominantly, with small blends of other Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$160–$195 USD per 750ml bottle (retail), $130–$160 (auction/secondary market)

Tasting profile

Ripe black currant, blackberry, cassis, plum, and dark cherry supported by mocha, espresso, cedar, graphite, vanilla, and sweet baking spices. Hints of violet, earth, and mint. Structure is bold and layered with a lengthy, firm finish.

Evolution: Fruit will move from fresh and vibrant to more dried and compote-like; tertiary notes such as tobacco, leather, cedar, and savory earth will emerge as structure softens and aromatics become more refined.

At peak: Complex bouquet featuring integrated dark fruit, harmonious oak, velvety tannins, and evolving secondary and tertiary notes. Silky texture, depth, and a persistent, nuanced finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium; provides vibrancy and freshness, supporting longevity as the wine’s fruit and structure evolve.

Tannins

Medium-high and finely grained; presently firm yet integrated; beginning to soften but will become suppler with age.

Alcohol

Medium-high (typically 14.5–15% ABV); well-integrated, supporting weight and texture without overpowering.

Aging potential

20–25 years from vintage (expected maturity through early 2040s with proper storage)

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2036

Optimal window

2024 to 2042

Current status

Approachable now, but will benefit from further aging

Current condition

Youthful with primary fruit, firm structure, and developing complexity

2018 is a highly regarded Napa vintage: wines show ripe fruit, robust structure, and balanced acidity. The window from 2028–2036 is considered peak as tannins resolve, primary fruit matures, and secondary/tertiary complexity blossoms. By the late 2030s, the wine will plateau; after, fresh fruit will fade, structure may decline, and oxidation may increase, diminishing finesse.

Food pairing

Pairs best with prime rib, grilled ribeye, lamb chops, venison, braised short ribs, and aged cheddar or gouda. With age, pairings shift to dishes with earthy or umami elements like mushroom risotto, duck confit, beef Wellington, or truffle-infused fare, as the wine’s evolved flavors harmonize with these notes.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium-high tannins that are beginning to soften, which can benefit from aeration to enhance its flavors and aromas.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Water conservation, integrated pest management, soil health initiatives, habitat preservation. Beringer employs solar energy and eco-friendly vineyard management.

Beringer is a leader among legacy Napa producers for sustainability practices, but not fully organic or biodynamic. Solid scores for resource management; room to improve with further packaging and logistical eco-innovations.