By Beringer
2020 Q Napa Valley Red Blend

Vintage
The 2020 vintage combined a warm, dry winter, late March rains, and circumstances beyond the typical season. Mild spring weather provided a great early start, later tempered by the warmth of the summer growing season and frequent heat spikes. 2020, with its low rainfall, low yields, and dynamic weather, set the stage for fruit with pronounced microclimatic and aromatic complexity. While vineyard and winery conditions adapted at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic with extensive safety protocols, wildfires across California posed an even greater challenge in the latter half of the vintage. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot were harvested late September into October, while other varietals were not harvested. The limited supply of the resulting wines shows all the phenolic ripeness, acidic backbone, and exceptional nuance of this challenging vintage.

Blending
With a focus on Napa Valley, each distinctive varietal lot is kept separate from harvest until final blending the following year. Each year, the Q Red Wine showcases a blend of traditional Bordeaux varietals with a foundation of Cabernet Sauvignon, the backbone and undisputed star of Beringer. In this vintage, the blend is anchored by 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Merlot. Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec were not harvested in 2020. Merlot contributes a round mouthfeel, soft tannins, and elegant acidity to the final blend.

Wine Details
Blend: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Merlot
Aging: Aged 20 months in 59% new French oak followed by an additional year in bottle
Alcohol: 14.90%

Tasting Notes
A fresh, bright, and ripe bouquet of blackberry, black currant, and blueberry, with notes of sweet tobacco, vanilla, and oak spice. The palate is full-bodied and textured with rich, inviting notes of juicy cassis and dark plum supported by round tannins and hints of dark chocolate, leading to a structured, creamy finish with tension and a mouthwatering acidity. Drinking beautifully upon release and sure to age another 5-10 years when cellared properly.
[Information provided by Beringer]

Wine: Beringer Napa Valley Q Red Blend 2020
Score/Rating: 92
Suggested Drinking Window: From 2025
Review Date: 05/11/2023
Reviewed By: Andrii Stetsiuk
Tasting Notes: Notes of ripe blackberries and plums with hints of baking spices, dried rosemary, cocoa and moist earth. Full-bodied with powdery tannins and a juicy, dark-fruited mid-palate. Chalky and lightly chewy on the finish. Better from 2025.