Wine reviews
The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits more elegance and finesse, and is not as open-knit or richly fruity as the 2004. It should drink well for a decade or more. Once again the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is very promising. More backward than the Napa bottling, but denser in color as well as richer and more complete on the palate, it is a long, powerful, intense wine that should outlive the 2004 by 5-8 years. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2020+
The single vineyard 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard reveals classic crème de cassis, cedar, earth, and licorice characteristics reminiscent of a northern Medoc. Dense, rich, and more concentrated than the regular Napa bottling, with additional structure, it should easily evolve for 15+ years. This small estate’s production is limited, but these wines merit attention
Very ripe and woody, with cedary, toasty oak holding the upper hand on roasted meat, ripe currant, sage and licorice. Yet despite all its woody character right now, this finishes with a wonderful burst of red currant fruit. Best from 2010 through 2017. 220 cases made. – J. L.