2003 Beringer Merlot Bancroft Ranch Private Reserve
Estimated value
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Tasting notes
Dark red. Aromas of plum, chocolate, truffle and coconutty oak, with suggestions of jammy fruits and underbrush. Fairly supple and smooth, with moderate depth to the plum, currant, truffle and licorice flavors. Turns a bit dry on the back, with some herbal notes emerging. There are still some blocks dating back to 1986 but most of this is now from young vines.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
From Howell Mountain, the medium-bodied, spicy, moderately tannic 2003 Merlot Bancroft Ranch displays white chocolate, crushed rock, black currant, cherry, and earth characteristics. It will drink nicely for 7-10 years. Previously recommended: 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Knight’s Valley (90), 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa (89), 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Bancroft Ranch (90), 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Chabot Vineyard (92), 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Marston Vineyard (90+), 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve (94), 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Quarry Vineyard (88?), 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Rancho del Oso (87), 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Home Vineyard (93), 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Steinhauer Vineyard (90), 2004 Chardonnay Napa (87), 2004 Chardonnay Private Reserve (92), 2004 Chardonnay Sbragia Limited Release (93). Tel. (707) 963-7115; Fax (707) 963-1735