Wine reviews
Young and powerful, with explosive, wall-to-wall flavors that are deeply extracted and firmly tannic, centered on gutsy dark berry, currant, anise, cigar box and cedar. Presents a potent aftertaste. Needs time. Best from 2020 through 2034. 638 cases made. – JL
The second perfect score I have given to a Hobbs Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (the other was the 2002), the 2013 is as spectacular as his 2002 was. There are 638 cases of this massive wine that comes across like a firstgrowth Pauillac. Lead pencil shavings, cedar wood, blueberry and blackberry liqueur as well as hints of forest floor and tobacco leaf are all present in this fragrant, sumptuously textured, full-bodied, massively rich yet sensationally well-balanced Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a finish of well over 55 seconds. This is amazing work, and interestingly, I believe Hobbs was the first to offer a Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard designated Cabernet Sauvignon. Paul Hobbs has emerged as one of the great success stories in Northern California. He’s an international consultant known for his outstanding work in Argentina. He is also now involved in a joint venture in the Finger Lakes region of New York, so hopefully we can anticipate some interesting Rieslings and possibly Grüner Veltliner, Pinot Blanc and even Gewurztraminer emerging from New York State. I had an extensive tasting with Hobbs at his winery in late January, and the results were all impressive. The tastings reflect the fact that, for Chardonnay, both 2013 and 2014 are brilliant vintages, and for Pinot Noir, 2014 may possibly eclipse 2013. As for the Bordeaux varietals, there’s no question that 2013 is the game-changer, as I indicated in previous reports, but 2014 is delicious and another top-notch success. - RP
The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon is also backward and unevolved, but bursting with first growth potential. Blueberry, blackberry, lots of glycerin, stunning purity and a floral note all make for a magnificent Cabernet Sauvignon that should age effortlessly. This has perfection potential. From one of Northern California’s most accomplished and respected wine consultants and producers, the 2012s and 2013s will create high expectations, and readers are unlikely to be disappointed by Paul Hobbs and his team. – RP