2010 Beaulieu Vineyard Tapestry Reserve

There are lots of bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet blends coming out of Napa Valley priced in the $30-$40 range. Many are, in my humble opinion, overpriced and banking on the fame of Napa as a wine region.

Not so with the Beaulieu Vineyard Tapestry Reserve. This blend (72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 3% each Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec) was simply a luscious drink. The nose held rich, ripe black fruits, including blackberries, plums and sweet black currants. This opened up to vanilla, oak, herbs, and subtle spice. Medium-bodied, the tannin was there for structure, but overall, the wine was silky and elegant, with complexity enough to drink on its own or pair with food. This is new world winemaking at its best. Concentrated fruit, yet complexity and subtlety with structure and balance.  I enjoyed it over two nights. I was extremely pleased with the bottle and not at all disappointed by the quality for the price. When I’m craving Napa Cabernet, I know what I’ll be turning to.