Cliff Lede Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from one of the Grand Cru sites in the valley, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon reveals a saturated purple color as well as a gorgeous nose of red, black, and blue fruits intermixed with notions of unsmoked tobacco, incense, decayed flowers, and forest floor. Beautifully complex, nuanced, and layered, with a full-bodied mouthfeel and loads of building yet ripe tannins, it's a stunning achievement in 2017 that's not far off what was achieved in 2016. Drink it over the coming 20 years or more.

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard captures a striking expression of this historic Oakville site. Unctuous, rich and enveloping, the 2017 has so much to offer. Inky dark fruit, spice, menthol, licorice and leather all flesh out in the glass with great balance. The 2017 is terrific, and also one of the more immediate and easy-to-drink wines in this range.

With nearly two years in barrel, 85% of it new French oak, this powerful wine offers dense layers of dark chocolate, blackberry and iron, plus a texture of crushed rock, with grip. Lengthy tannins are supple and well integrated, contributing complexity and graceful structure. This will do well in the cellar; enjoy best from 2027–2032.

The deep garnet-purple colored 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon is closed, slowly opening to earthy, broody black fruit preserves with slight notions of herbs and licorice. This is a full-bodied, rich, ambitious wine with tightly wound layers and a mineral finish.