2007 Beaulieu Vineyard, Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Beaulieu Vineyard's Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is anchored in the historic Rutherford AVA, drawing from specific clonal selections grown on the western bench's well-draining alluvial fan soils, which foster small, concentrated berries. The 2007 growing season, marked by a mild-to-cool summer and few extreme heat spikes, facilitated gradual, even ripening, preserving intrinsic acidity and allowing for optimal phenolic development. Winemaking involved a combination of fermentation in new French oak barrels, stainless steel, and concrete, followed by extended skin contact. This meticulous approach, coupled with significant aging in new French oak, builds a dense and firm architectural core. The resulting Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits deep color, substantial mid-palate weight, vibrant acidity, and polished tannins, indicative of a wine built for longevity.