Georges de Latour Private Reserve (1987)
SommeliAI Insights
A classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with rich flavors of ripe berries, chocolate, and a long, velvety finish.
About this wine
The 1987 Georges de Latour Private Reserve from Beaulieu Vineyard presents a medium brick color, indicating its maturity. On the nose, it offers aromas of prunes, dried blueberries, tobacco, and tapenade, complemented by subtle notes of mossy bark, bay leaves, and dusty soil. The palate is light to medium-bodied, showcasing a delicate style with lively freshness and savory flavors. The finish is long and earthy, reflecting the wine's age and complexity. This vintage is a testament to Beaulieu Vineyard's legacy in producing benchmark Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons since 1936.
About the grape
Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape that emerged in 17th-century France from a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, is renowned for its thick skins and resilience, making it a favorite among vintners. In Napa Valley, this varietal found an ideal environment, particularly in the Rutherford region, where Beaulieu Vineyard (BV) was established in 1900. BV's founder, Georges de Latour, recognized the potential of Cabernet Sauvignon early on, planting it extensively. By 1936, BV produced its first vintage of the Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, which became Napa Valley's first 'cult' Cabernet, setting a benchmark for quality in the region.
Quick facts
- 🏰 The 1987 Georges de Latour Private Reserve was crafted by Beaulieu Vineyard, a historic Napa Valley winery founded in 1900 by Georges de Latour and his wife, Fernande.
- 🍇 This wine is named in honor of the winery's founder, Georges de Latour, who established the 'Private Reserve' label in 1940 to showcase the finest Cabernet Sauvignon from their Rutherford vineyards.
- 👨🔬 The 1987 vintage was produced under the guidance of winemaker Joel Aiken, who succeeded the legendary André Tchelistcheff, often referred to as the 'dean of American winemakers.'
- 🏅 The 1987 vintage received a 92-point rating from Wine Advocate, highlighting its quality and aging potential.
- 🍷 Beaulieu Vineyard's 'Georges de Latour Private Reserve' is considered Napa Valley's first 'cult' Cabernet Sauvignon, setting a benchmark for quality in the region.
Palate profile
Producer
Beaulieu Vineyard (BV) was founded in 1900 by Georges de Latour and his wife, Fernande, in Rutherford, California. The name "Beaulieu," meaning "beautiful place" in French, was inspired by Fernande's exclamation upon seeing the property. During Prohibition, BV thrived by producing sacramental wines for the Catholic Church, allowing it to expand significantly. In 1938, the winery hired André Tchelistcheff, a renowned winemaker who introduced innovative techniques and elevated BV's reputation, particularly with the creation of the "Georges de Latour Private Reserve" Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, BV remains a cornerstone of Napa Valley's winemaking heritage, continuing to produce acclaimed wines from its historic vineyards.
