Beringer Bros. Whisper Sister Cabernet Sauvignon California 2017

The Data

Country USA

Appellation California

Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon

Retail Price $30

ABV 14.5%

Score 4 Stars/91 points

In the Glass

Appearance

Brilliant, deep violet color.

Aromatics

The aromatics are very intense offering scents of blackberry and cassis with supporting notes of plum, slate, and oak.

Flavor

The palate confirms the nose delivering a black fruit-driven core with flavors of black fruits, cocoa, and baking spices. The finish is long and lingering with ripe, chewy tannins.

Intensity & Texture

Full-bodied and nicely balanced with a velvety and supple texture.

Cool Factor

What's not cool about a beautifully made Napa Cabernet that also includes 14% of the fruit from neighboring Sonoma County and a splash of Petite Sirah!

Value Grade

Selling at $30 retail and much more on premise this nicely made Cabernet Sauvignon straddles the middle premium price zone. We find it to be a good value.

Analysis

The fruit for this charming and approachable Cabernet hails from both Napa County (86%) and Sonoma County (14%). The wine is fermented in stainless steel and then aged in French oak barrels (20% new) for a period of 20 months. This wines name, Whisper Sister, and label celebrates Bertha Beringer whose ingenuity helped the property survive Prohibition even as most California wineries were forced to close. By the time Prohibition was repealed in 1933, 95% of California wineries had been forced to close but Beringer managed to survive.

How to Enjoy

All you need is a glass but this silky and fruity Cab pairs beautifully with beef kebobs, burgers, and dishes with tomato sauces.