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1991 Beringer Bancroft Ranch Howell Mountain Merlot

Not Currently In Auction

Latest Sale Price

October 15, 2023 - $71

Estimate

RATINGS

93Robert M. Parker Jr.

...huge nose of chocolate and nearly over-ripe black-cherries, with some oak and herbs adding to the bouquet's complexity. The wine is full-bodied, with a layered, opulent personality, super-ripeness, and a heady, chocolatey finish.

90Wine Spectator

Young and complex, with layers of cherry, currant, chocolate and buttery oak that all fold together neatly. Flavors fan out on the finish, where it picks up a pretty vanilla edge. Has the tannins to age another three to five years...

REGION

United States, California, Napa Valley, Howell Mountain

Howell Mountain AVA in Northeastern Napa Valley was the first of Napa Valley’s sub-appellations, earning its own designation in 1984, just a year after Napa Valley became an appellation. As the name suggests, the AVA is in one of the highest elevations in the area. Every vineyard in the appellation is at least 1,400 feet above sea level. Some vineyards are as high as 2,200 feet and because of their altitude most of the AVA’s vineyards receive more sun than vineyards at lower elevations, which are affected by fog from the Pacific Ocean and the San Pablo Bay. Howell Mountain was home to vineyards in the late 19th century, but winemaker Randy Dunn is considered the area’s most influential modern pioneer. Dunn moved to Howell Mountain in 1979, acquired property and began making exceptionally rich Cabernet Sauvignon. The AVA also grows Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. There are 600 vineyard acres within Howell Mountain AVA.

TYPE

Red Wine, Merlot

The Merlot grape is such a deep blue that it is named for the blackbird. It’s an early ripening grape and one of the primary varietals used In Bordeaux. Merlot is also grown in the "International style," which is harvested later to bring out more tannins and body.