Wine reviews
Another brilliant offering from one of the true first-growth sites in Napa Valley is the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard. Graphite, crème de cassis and spice box characteristics jump from the glass of this dense purple-colored Cabernet Sauvignon. Thick but fresh with gorgeously ripe fruit, a full-bodied mouthfeel and a long finish, this is a terrific example of Cabernet Sauvignon. It will drink well young and over the next 15+ years. One of the best-run wineries in Napa Valley, Cliff Lede Vineyards has surged into the top hierarchy of quality in a relatively short period of time. It is located on the Yountville Crossroads, directly across from another budding superstar, the Kapcsandy Family Winery. -RP
Offers a pebbly foundation, with rich, chunky wild blackberry and anise flavors. Ends with stemmy tannins. Drink now through 2029. 456 cases made. –JL