Wine reviews
Very lush in feel, with caressing, creamy layers of cassis, plum puree and melted red licorice rolling through easily, gilded on the finish with light sparkles of anise, bramble and shaved vanilla. Drink now through 2035. 325 cases made. – JM
There are two releases from this remarkable site just outside St. Helena. Looking first at the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard, this stunning wine gives up a monster bouquet of currants and cassislike fruits as well as leafy herbs, tobacco, chocolate, and spice. Beautifully full-bodied on the palate, it has ripe, polished tannins, impeccable balance, no hard edges, and that rare mix of power and elegance. – JD
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr Crane Vineyard is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep garnet-purple in color, it erupts from the glass with a firework display of iron ore, lilacs, star anise and sandalwood scents, over a core of blackcurrant jelly, wild blueberries and chocolate-covered cherries, plus a touch of tree bark. Full-bodied, firm and beautifully, seamlessly knit, it delivers layer upon layer of earth and black fruits, finishing very long and fragrant. – LPB
Another gem of a wine, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard shows a classic expression of this terroir with its deep, darker fruits, earth, cold fireplace, graphite, and tobacco-like aromas and flavors. These all carry over to the palate, offering full body, a seamless, elegant texture, polished tannins, and a great finish. If it puts on weight over the course of its élevage, it will be up with the 2018. – JD