Beringer’s Knights Valley 2015 is a distinguished red wine hailing from one of California’s prized AVAs, renowned for producing bold and elegant expressions. As the wine is described as a cuvée from Knights Valley, its blend is likely composed primarily of Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or perhaps Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, although the precise combination is not specified. The 2015 vintage in California was marked by a warm and relatively early harvest, contributing to concentrated fruit flavours and finely structured tannins. Beringer, a historic estate with deep roots in Californian winemaking, is celebrated for careful vinification, tending to blend wines that highlight ripe fruit, well-integrated oak, and a measured balance between richness and finesse.
Knights Valley itself sits at the eastern edge of Sonoma County, nestled against the Mayacamas Mountains and bordering Napa Valley. The climate here is decidedly warm, tempered by cooling breezes that cascade through the valley, allowing for extended ripening of the grapes. The diverse soils, ranging from volcanic ash to gravelly loam, contribute elegance and complexity to the wines. Knights Valley has been recognised as an AVA since 1983 and continues to produce expressive wines, particularly reds distinguished by their depth and structure, a testament to both its unique terroir and historical significance in California’s viticultural landscape.
For food pairing, the generous body and structure of this red make it an excellent match for hearty dishes, such as grilled rib-eye steak, roast lamb with herbs, or rich stews. For a local twist, you might consider California-style tri-tip cooked over oak or a classic American beef brisket. The ripe fruit profile and supple tannins can also work well with aged cheeses or robust vegetarian dishes like portobello mushroom gratin or lentil and root vegetable casseroles.
When serving, decanting the wine for about an hour prior to drinking is recommended to encourage its bouquet to unfold. For optimal enjoyment, serve at 16-18°C, which will showcase its nuanced aromatics and harmonious palate.
