1996 Beringer Vineyards Cabernet Franc Third Century Howell Mountain

Beringer's Winemaker Emeritus, Ed Sbragia, recently moved on to a new project, leaving his long-time assistant Laurie Hook in charge. He'd long had a magic touch with Cabernet Sauvignon. And in spite of the massive size of the operation-- the oldest continuously operating winery in Napa Valley -- the top wines here revealed a handcrafted element, in addition to being decadently rich and sweet in the early going but have a track record for lasting well in bottle. The Merlots are also exciting: at best, they are some of the lushest and most satisfying examples in the New World. Don't neglect the whites, especially the rich, exotic Private Reserve Chardonnay.

Beringer's Winemaker Emeritus, Ed Sbragia, recently moved on to a new project, leaving his long-time assistant Laurie Hook in charge. He'd long had a magic touch with Cabernet Sauvignon. And in spite of the massive size of the operation-- the oldest continuously operating winery i... more