Wine reviews
Very lush in feel, with caressing, creamy layers of cassis, plum puree and melted red licorice rolling through easily, gilded on the finish with light sparkles of anise, bramble and shaved vanilla. Drink now through 2035. 325 cases made. – JM
Even better, and a perfect wine in this reviewer’s opinion, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard Elysian is a tiny cellar selection that brings even more richness and depth while not giving an inch with regard to finesse and elegance. Gorgeous ripe black fruits, tobacco leaf, crushed violets, and chocolate are just some of the nuances in this puppy, and it's full-bodied, with an expansive, multi-dimensional texture, perfect tannins, and one incredible finish. It's a more textured, fleshy wine than the base Dr. Crane and already offers pleasure, yet it will undoubtedly evolve for over two decades. This is pure Napa Valley brilliance. – JD
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard Elysian (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) hits the ground running with the most powerful, profound nose of violets, dark chocolate, crushed rocks, Morello cherries and rose oil, over a core of crushed blackcurrants and fresh, juicy blackberries, plus wafts of plum pudding and cedar chest. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is laden with tightly wound layers of black fruits and minerals, framed by exquisitely ripe tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with epic length and depth. Prepare to have your mind blown! – LPB
A tiny cellar selection of winemaker Mike Smith’s favorite barrels, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyards Elysian is going to flirt with perfection, revealing a heavenly bouquet of crème de cassis, chocolate-covered blueberries, smoked tobacco, camp earth, and exotic spices. Ever to slightly richer and denser than the straight Dr. Crane, it has a similar weightless mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a blockbuster of a finish. This brilliant 2019 is going to drink well with just short-term cellaring yet evolve for 20-30 years. – JD