Georges de Latour Private Reserve (1992)

About this wine

The 1992 Georges de Latour Private Reserve from Beaulieu Vineyard presents a medium dark-ruby garnet color. On the nose, it offers aromas of blackberry, raspberry, and mint. The palate is medium-bodied, showcasing flavors of blackcurrant and dark cherry, complemented by subtle hints of cedar and mocha. The tannins are firm yet approachable, leading to a smooth, lingering finish. This vintage reflects the winery's shift to aging in 32% new French oak, resulting in a more subtle integration of oak flavors.

About the grape

Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape variety 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, particularly in the Rutherford region, this grape thrives in well-draining alluvial soils, contributing to wines with notable structure and aging potential. Beaulieu Vineyard's Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, first released in 1940, showcases the exceptional quality of Cabernet Sauvignon from this area, solidifying its status as a benchmark for Napa Valley wines.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 1992 vintage of Beaulieu Vineyard's Georges de Latour Private Reserve marked a significant shift in the winery's aging process, incorporating 32% new French oak barrels for the first time, moving away from the traditional use of 100% American oak.
• 🌄 This wine is crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes sourced from the Rutherford AVA in Napa Valley, an area renowned for its distinctive 'Rutherford dust'—a term coined by winemaker André Tchelistcheff to describe the region's unique terroir.
• 🏞️ Beaulieu Vineyard, established in 1900 by Georges de Latour, is one of Napa Valley's oldest wineries. The name 'Beaulieu' translates to 'beautiful place' in French, reflecting the founders' admiration for the vineyard's location.
• 🍇 The 1992 Georges de Latour Private Reserve was noted for its elegant and understated profile, featuring a healthy ruby color, medium body, and a silky texture, offering considerable charm and ripe fruit flavors.
• 👨‍🌾 André Tchelistcheff, a Russian-born winemaker who joined Beaulieu Vineyard in 1938, played a pivotal role in elevating the quality of Napa Valley wines. His influence is evident in the refined style of the 1992 vintage.

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.