1996 Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve

Beaulieu's flagship, the 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve, exhibits a deep ruby/purple color as well as aggressive toasty new oak, medium body, and firm tannin. The noticeable acidity exacerbates the firmness and tannic structure. Although very good, possibly excellent, it needs 2-4 years of cellaring. It should keep for 15-20 years. This wine needs more mid-palate as well as additional layers of flavor. Less acidification would open up the wine's texture. Tel. (707) 963-2411; Fax (707) 963-5920

Bright ruby-red. Quintessential Napa Valley aromas of cassis, tar, menthol, dried herbs, chocolate and Rutherford dust. Rather grapey flavors of cassis and spicy, cedary oak, complicated by an herbal note. Finishes rather tannic and a bit tough. Does this have enough flesh for its structure?