Wine reviews
Leading off the three wines from Cliff Lede, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon is pure perfection in a glass. This extraordinary wine is unquestionably one of the finest in this report and has an awesome, singular style that's hard to believe. Saturated purple in color, it offers a kaleidoscope of gamey blueberries, crushed black cherries, forest floor, leafy herbs, and damp earth. Deep, massively concentrated, and layered on the palate, it has layer upon layer of complexity and texture, building sweet tannins, and a monster finish. This is one of those magical wines that you can't forget. Drink it any time over the coming 3-4 decades. – JD
Frankly ripe blackberry and boysenberry compote flavors form the core, with loads of brambly energy to carry it off, while lively tobacco, anise and spice notes and deeply embedded iron and loam elements build through the finish. Distinctive and impressive. Best from 2022 through 2038. – J.M.
Frankly ripe blackberry and boysenberry compote flavors form the core, with loads of brambly energy to carry it off, while lively tobacco, anise and spice notes and deeply embedded iron and loam elements build through the finish. Distinctive and impressive. 615 cases made. – J.M