Wine reviews
Centered on a rich, vibrant, lively core of juicy blackberry. The ripeness and acidity complement the raw and coarse texture, with the fruit providing plenty of power and expression. The tannins lean toward the rowdy side. Drink now through 2028. 170 cases made. –JL
From the famous George III vineyard, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard has a haunting bouquet of cedar wood, juicy blackcurrant jam and forest floor. A soil note enhances the overall picture. The wine has gorgeously sweet well-integrated tannins, no evidence of new oak (as it’s so well-integrated), a plush, voluptuously textured full-bodied mouthfeel and a knockout finish. This is sensational wine that can easily be a modern-day version of one of the great BV Private Reserves from decades ago, although in this case it’s aged in French oak, not American. Kudos to Mike Smith. Look for this to drink well for 20 or more years. - RP
The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer George III Vineyard exhibits more structure than the other 2012s as well as plenty of rich blueberry and cassis fruit, glycerin and body, stunning power and admirable overall harmony, purity, juiciness and sucrosity from ripe fruit. - RP