The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Home Vineyard reveals similar characteristics, but more fruit and depth, and it cuts a broader, richer feel on the palate. Previously recommended: 2005 Chardonnay Sbragia Limited Release (93), 2005 Chardonnay Private Reserve (93), 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve (92).Tel. (707) 963-7115; Fax (707) 963-1735

The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Home Vineyard has elegance, more chocolate and espresso notes, plenty of cassis and kirsch notes. As long-time readers know, Beringer’s Private Reserve is a blend of all of the single-vineyard cuvees in various percentages that differ considerably depending on the vintage. They are available through the Private Members Club at Beringer and are not put on the market, as the only one to be released is the Private Reserve, which proves the blending skills of the winemakers. And those winemakers have been at Beringer for a long time, including Ed Sbragia, and Laurie Hook. As for the single-vineyard wines, I’ll keep my notes short, since these are only available to members. Tel. (866) 708-9463

There’s a softness to this dry wine. It’s forward and rich in currants and smoky oak, but could use greater acidity. The tannins also seem a little ungainly, although they could mellow out in a few years.——S.H.(4/1/2008)—— 87