Behrens Family Winery is based in St. Helena in the Napa Valley section of California. The boutique winery produces limited quantities of blended red wines and a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. The owners of the winery are Les Behrens and Lisa Drinkward. The name Erna Schein is a dedication to Les’ mother.
The 2007 Erna Schein Jersey Boy was red blend, comprised of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 14% Syrah, 6% Petit Verdot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. The wine’s labeled ABV was 14.5%. There were 384 cases of this vintage produced. The back label of the wine declared it “California Red Wine”.
Last month, we joined our neighbors (yes, the neighbors) for dinner at Drew’s Bayshore Bistro. Drew is one of the finest chefs in the Northeast and his restaurant is a BYOB. I arrived at Drew’s with some Robert Biale Zins in tow. They are always a great match for Drew’s Cajun style. My neighbor popped out a bottle of 2007 Jersey Boy. I had never heard nor tasted the wine before and it turned out to be quite good. Unfortunately, there were no notes taken that evening.
I inquired where he procured the said Jersey Boy, and promptly set about obtaining a bottle to review in greater detail.
Prior to tasting, the wine was decanted for 1 hour.
The primary aromas from the wine were red berries, more specifically strawberry and raspberry. There was also a hint of jam. Without knowing the composition, I would not have guessed this wine was primarily Cabernet Sauvignon.
The palate was full with red and black fruit. There was a lot going on, but it was harmonious. Plum was prominent from the fruit, but there were also floral notes (rose?). The back end had a touch of toffee. So much, but so well blended. The tannins were extremely soft. There was an excellent balance of fruit and acidity.
The finish was medium, with vanilla and toffee.
The 2007 Erna Schein Jersey Boy cost me $50. Given the limited availability of this wine, it offers good value at that price point. I would definitely drink this wine again. If you happen to come across it, I recommend you give it a try.
Cheers!
NJ Vinoman
Veni! Vidi! Vino! 
What a unusual bottle label. A real eye-catcher though
Historically, parts of New Jersey were rather industrial…
Les Behrens was born in Perth Amboy, NJ, near many industrial cities, before he moved to California as a child.
This was an eye catching label for sure. The painting was by John Puglisi and the bottle design was by Brian Nash (www,bndco.com).
The Behrens website lists some other interesting labels under the Wine section.
An interesting wine post, to be sure. I’m surprised it cost $50, but if you say it’s worth a try, I believe i. I love your Blog!
Love the Jersey Boy too!! Can’t wait to read some more posts soon!
The label is attractive, very indicative to the origin of the winemaker and where it is from.
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Have a great weekend.