The 2012 vintage began with textbook conditions that continued through much of Harvest. Spring bud break was ideal with steady flowering and even fruit set. A lengthy stretch of warm days and cool nights during the summer months allowed for optimal ripeness to develop in the grapes and an exceptional quality overall. Steinhauer vineyard provides the foundation (30%) for the 2012 blend, which has been part of the Private Reserve blend since 1993. A significant portion (17%) comes from Bancroft Ranch atop Howell Mountain as well, and another portion (17%) comes from the St. Helena Home vineyard, which was part of the original acreage that founders Jacob and Frederick Beringer purchased in 1875 with the Beringer estate. Laurie also chose some select lots from the Rutherford appellation to include in the 2012 blend, as she particularly liked the broad, dense and classic Cabernet characteristics that appellation is known for. Each lot is closely watched during the ripening period to determine ideal pick time. Grapes for the 2012 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon were harvested between September 25th and October 27th.