Jump back to the 1980s, when Beringer Vineyards reigned supreme with its celebrated “Private Reserve” Cabernet Sauvignon—an iconic proprietary blend built on the exceptional fruit of the famed State Lane Vineyard in Yountville. In 2000, as Beringer streamlined its asset portfolio, they sold the storied vineyard to Hungarian-born Lou Kapcsándy. Driven by an unwavering dream to own a piece of Napa’s legacy, Lou seized this rare opportunity, embarking on an ambitious replanting project to transform the historic property into a modern “First Growth” benchmark that seamlessly marries tradition with cutting-edge innovation.

Fast-forward to the impressive 2018 vintage in Napa Valley—a year with very even, cool weather, no major heat events, and a long, relaxed harvest. Kapcsándy knocked it out of the park in 2018. The standout Grand Vin Cabernet Sauvignon not only captured a perfect 100-point score but also set the stage for its equally impressive and more affordable siblings: the "Rapszodia" Cabernet Franc and "Roberta’s Reserve" Merlot. We selected the Cabernet Franc and Merlot for their sheer polish and elegance. With five years of bottle age, an hour decant will reveal their refined structure and alluring tertiary complexities. These wines have an allure comparable to a sexy, super-charged Saint Emilion, such as a Château Pavie or Ausone.

Press: 98 Points, Vinous Media: (98% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc)

• "The 2018 Roberta's Reserve is all elegance, all class. But it is also more reserved than it was a year ago. That's probably a very good thing for its long-term prospects, though. In 2018, the Roberta's s especially fine and understated. I can't wait to taste t in another few years' time." - Antonio Galloni, Oct. 2021