Wine reviews
This is a new wine in the TOR range—a very clever co-fermented blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc coming from three blocks at Beckstoffer's To Kalon vineyard: B, F and D blocks. The 2018 Red Blend Pure Magic Beckstoffer To Kalon B F D prances out of the glass with flamboyant scents of black currant pastilles, red currant jelly, stewed plums and Morello cherries with suggestions of underbrush, charcoal, bouquet garni and lavender plus a touch of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate struts out a solid frame of exquisitely ripe tannins and bold freshness supporting the multilayered black and red berry flavors, finishing with epic length and an amazing display of mineral fireworks. 125 cases were made. – LPB
The 2018 Pure Magic Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard comes all from three blocks in To Kalon and was cofermented. I believe I reviewed this last year from barrel as the To Kalon Vineyard BFD. Thrilling and incredibly pure notes of crème de cassis, spring flowers, damp earth, graphite, and violets all emerge from the glass, and it hits the palate with an ethereal, full-bodied, flawless texture that carries silky tannins and a monster of a finish. It's not the biggest or richest wine in the lineup, but its levels of finesse, balance, and purity are off the charts. This magical wine is perfection in a glass to this reviewer. It should evolve for 25+ years. – JD