2017 QUANTUM RED BLEND NAPA VALLEY:
Quantum is the smallest unit of energy achievable in science. Each tiny particle holds unique potential to contribute to a larger being. When these units combine, each quantum adds its specific essence, resulting in a system of great expression and complexity. Beringer recognizes that each grape varietal offers unique flavor and structure, and that each vineyard and block of vines contributes yet another expression of those varietals. Beringer farms a unique collection of remarkable vineyard sites in Napa Valley. The Quantum blend highlights the individual personalities of each varietal, creating a wine with balance, structure and exceptional flavor.
VINTAGE & VINEYARDS:
The 2017 vintage provided high quality thanks to lower than average yields. The year began with abundant rainfall. Spring weather was mild, resulting in extended flowering in some areas with little shatter. Vines were vigorous thanks to the winter rains. A freak hail storm passed through quickly in June causing isolated damage. Three heat events, including one over Labor Day weekend, kicked harvest into high gear, dehydrating some grapes by early September. Cool weather arrived immediately afterward, allowing sugar levels to return to normal. Most late-ripening red grapes continued to hang on the vine and were picked throughout October.
WINEMAKING:
With the focus on Napa Valley, each distinctive lot is kept separate from the moment of harvest until final blending the following year. Each Quantum expression showcases traditional Bordeaux varietals with a foundation of Cabernet Sauvignon, the backbone and undisputed star of Beringer. In this vintage, the blend anchors with 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Merlot contributes to a round mouthfeel and soft tannins, Cabernet Franc adds great color and unique aromatics, Petit Verdot adds fullness and complexity, while a touch of Malbec adds silkiness and depth of color to the final blend. The wines aged in French oak barrels (67% new) 20 months, and allowed to further integrate and gain complexity in bottle for another year.
TASTING NOTES:
Aromas of black fruits and brown spice alongside preserves accented by notes of herb, oak spice and dried fruits. Plush and velvety in the mouth with a chocolate note with evident tannins that will lead to continue development as the wine ages. Savory and chewy upon entry, enjoyable now but will show well for 10-15 years at minimum.
- VARIETAL COMPOSITION:
- 82% Cabernet Sauvignon
- 7% Merlot
- 5% Petit Verdot
- 4% Cabernet Franc
- 2% Malbec
- VINIFICATION: Aged 20 months in French oak barrels (67% new). At rest after bottling for an additional year.
- Alc: 14.8%
- TA: 5.9 g/L
- pH: 3.75
A firm and very silky red with a layered mouth feel and lots of depth and length. Polished and juicy. Rich, yet structured. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, petit verdot, malbec and cabernet franc. Drink or hold. - James Suckling 93 points
The 2017 Quantum is bold, plump and juicy, which makes it one of the more immediate wines in this range. The richness of the year comes through effortlessly. Ripe red cherry, red plum, mocha, licorice, spice, new leather are all pushed forward. Juicy and supple with tons of fruit intensity, the 2017 will be easy to drink pretty much upon release. - Vinous Media 92 points
