James Suckling – 94 Points
This is layered, with chewy tannins and attractive blackcurrant and blackberry character. Chocolate and walnut highlights. Full and flavorful, but not heavy in any sense of the word. Cabernet sauvignon, merlot, Petit Verdot and cabernet franc. Better in a year or two. —James Suckling | jamessuckling.com
Vinous – 93 Points
The 2018 Red Wine Tapestry Reserve, BV’s Cabernet Sauvignon-based red, is another gorgeous wine in this range. Inky red/purplish fruit, rose petal, spice, blood orange and leather race out of the glass, lifted by attractive floral notes that continue to open with time in the glass. Feb/2021 —Antonio Galloni | vinous.com
Wine Spectator – 92 Points
This delivers a pure beam of cassis, plum purée and anise notes, offering a flash of sweet spice on the finish. Moderately toasty, with a very polished mouthfeel. Crowd pleaser. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2030. Mar/2022 | winespectator.com
Description
The 2018 Beaulieu Vineyard Tapestry is a masterful expression of Napa Valley’s terroir, showcasing the artistry and precision that have become synonymous with the historic BV estate. A Bordeaux-style red blend, this vintage is a harmonious symphony of varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec.
The wine opens with an inviting bouquet of dark cherries, ripe blackberries, and subtle hints of vanilla and baking spices. On the palate, it reveals a luscious and well-integrated structure, with velvety tannins providing a smooth and elegant texture. Rich layers of black fruit, cassis, and dark chocolate unfold, balanced by vibrant acidity that adds freshness and complexity.
The 2018 Tapestry exemplifies the winemaker’s meticulous attention to detail, with each varietal contributing distinctive characteristics while seamlessly blending into a cohesive whole. The lingering finish is marked by nuances of cedar, tobacco, and a touch of espresso, leaving a lasting impression of sophistication and depth.
This vintage is a testament to BV’s commitment to quality, reflecting the estate’s legacy of crafting wines that embody the essence of Napa Valley. The 2018 Beaulieu Vineyard Tapestry is ready to be savored now but promises to evolve gracefully with additional cellaring, making it a timeless addition to any discerning wine enthusiast’s collection.
Beaulieu Vineyard, often referred to as BV, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1900 by Georges de Latour, a French immigrant with a passion for winemaking. Here’s a brief history of Beaulieu Vineyard:
1. **Early Years (1900-1938):**
– Georges de Latour purchased a parcel of land in Rutherford, Napa Valley, California in 1900.
– In 1904, de Latour hired French winemaker André Tchelistcheff, marking the beginning of a significant collaboration.
– Prohibition (1920-1933) posed challenges to the wine industry, but BV survived by producing sacramental wines and a non-alcoholic grape juice called Beaulieu Grape Juice.
2. **Rebirth and Innovation (1938-1969):**
– Following the end of Prohibition, de Latour and Tchelistcheff focused on revitalizing BV.
– They introduced several innovations, such as cold fermentation and the use of French oak barrels, setting BV apart as a producer of high-quality wines.
– The Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon was first produced in 1936 but gained recognition in 1940 when it was labeled as “Private Reserve.”
3. **Ownership Changes (1969 Onwards):**
– In 1969, Georges de Latour sold BV to the Heublein beverage company.
– Despite changes in ownership, BV continued to produce notable wines, and its Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon gained acclaim.
– Subsequent owners included Grand Metropolitan, which later merged with Guinness to form Diageo.
4. **Stewardship under Diageo:**
– Under Diageo’s ownership, BV maintained its commitment to quality winemaking.
– Various winemakers continued the legacy, including Joel Aiken and Jeffrey Stambor.
5. **Legacy and Recognition:**
– BV’s Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon consistently earned high ratings and accolades, contributing to the winery’s reputation for producing exceptional wines.
– The winery’s historical significance and impact on Napa Valley’s wine industry solidified its place in California winemaking history.
6. **Recent Years:**
– Ownership might have changed after my last knowledge update in January 2022, and BV may have undergone further developments or innovations in recent years.
Beaulieu Vineyard’s long history reflects its dedication to quality winemaking and its influential role in shaping the Napa Valley wine industry. The Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, in particular, stands as a testament to the winery’s commitment to producing world-class wines.
