Wine reviews
The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane reveals a full-bodied mouthfeel, terrific fruit purity, a skyscraper-like, multidimensional mouthfeel, and lots of blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit intermixed with wet gravel, graphite and vanillin characteristics. Possibly the most concentrated of all these wines, this is an opulent, magnificent red to drink over the next two decades. Swiss-born Jean Hoefliger had plenty of experience in Bordeaux and working with Michel Rolland at Newton Vineyards before taking over the reins at Alpha Omega. He has hit pay-dirt with the 2012s, the finest vintage I have tasted from this ambitious winery located on Route 29, south of St. Helena. They have some great vineyard sources for their Cabernet Sauvignon, particularly the range of Beckstoffer-owned, first-growth quality sites spread throughout Napa. - RP
A mix of dusty, cedary oak and loamy earth notes weaves amid the dried berry, herb, cedar and cigar box flavors. The tannins are taut, but the flavors are persistent, pushing through on the finish. Drink now through 2022. 150 cases made.–JL