Beringer Vineyards Beringer Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 750ml

A mix of red and black fruits with lavender and fresh herbs followed by vanilla, blanched almonds and a hint of black ink and pencil lead. Full-bodied, firm and juicy tannins with good acidity backbone. Sound and harmonious wine with beautiful drinkability. Terrific quality. This needs two or three years to take the edge off it

Perfumed aromas of red currants, lavender, fresh thyme and graphite. The palate is medium-bodied with plush tannins and balanced acidity, giving flavors of raspberry coulis, red licorice and baking spices. Very soft and delicate, with a nicely constructed backbone. Drink or hold.

Those of us who purchased vintages of this wine way back when it was $15 may lament the current pricing, but in the context of 2024, Beringer's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Knights Valley still represents a decent value. The company owns or leases several vineyards in the AVA, so production of this vintage is a considerable 92,000 cases. Ripe cherries are accented by hints of cedar, baking spices and some slightly herbal notes on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is slightly open-knit. It's easy to drink but with enough textural richness to retain interest and pair with grilled beef or lamb. (Joe Czerwinski)

Bright and fresh, offering a fun beam of mulberry and loganberry puree gilded with violet and licorice notes through the direct, gently toasted finish. Drink now through 2025. 92,000 cases made. (James Molesworth)