▴ Beaulieu Vineyards Georges de la Tour Private Reserve 2022

Opulent Californian
Written By Sarah Kemp

Beaulieu Vineyards Georges de la Tour Private Reserve, Napa Valley, California 2022

According to Trevor Durling, Beaulieu’s winemaker (before he left to join Darioush late last year), the 2022 winter in Rutherford was warm and dry with cooler weather only arriving towards the end of March. ‘The summer surprised us with cool mornings and warmer afternoons. As a result, the harvest produced smaller berries with concentrated flavours and remarkable acidity’. As for the resulting wine that has just gone on sale on the Bordeaux Place (and with various merchants), its colour is crimson and purple with an intense primary nose of crème de cassis, vanilla and tobacco. The flamboyant palate offers a complex melange of bright fruits and layered flavours: blackberry, bramble, blueberries and raspberry upon impact followed by tobacco pouch, liquorice, cream and leather. Full bodied, this has gorgeous richness, opulence and power without being overdone thanks to its fine supporting acidity and dense ripe tannins. The kirsch finish is long and satisfying. It could be opened and enjoyed now but needs time to really hit its stride. Without question, this will be highly sought after.

ABV 14.9%
Price: From £120.00
Drink: 2028 to 2060

Review September 2025, SK

Sarah Kemp
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▴ Wynns John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon 2022