Wine reviews
The more exuberant yet still tannic, full-bodied, powerful 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard offers sweet crème de cassis, Christmas fruitcake, licorice and espresso notes in a full-bodied, deep, multilayered style with sensational ripeness and texture as well as a beautiful finish. The tannins are present, but there is enough lavish fruit to easily balance them out. While approachable, this beauty will be better in 4-5 years and should last for two decades or more. - RP
Deliciously rich blackberry, mocha, black licorice and spicy floral scents lead to a ripe, fleshy and full-bodied palate. Pure and persistent, this is long and elegant on the finish. Drink now through 2025. 250 cases made. – JL
The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard bursts onto the palate with mocha, spices, dark fruit, new leather, all of which come together seamlessly in the glass. There are plenty of tannins here, but the fruit is so textured they are barely perceptible. The 2009 is 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. Realm is one of the most exciting young wineries in Napa Valley. Wendell Laidley and Juan Mercado founded Realm in 2002. Since then, they have put together an impressive collection of vineyard sources. Benoit Touquette, a protege of Michel Rolland, is now the winemaker. Rolland collaborated on the blends beginning in 2009. This is a gorgeous set of wines that deserves considerable attention.