2013 Alpha Omega Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah

The series of outstanding Cabernets from Alpha Omega starts with their 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa, which offers plenty of blueberry and blackberry fruit, some creosote and charcoal, and a touch of background, toasty oak in a full-bodied, opulent, fleshy and pure style. It should drink nicely for 12-15 years. A blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 8% Petit Verdot and the rest Merlot is the 2013 Proprietary Red wine, which is all sourced from Napa. Again, terrific up-front fruit – blueberries, blackberries and cassis – an opaque purple color, and hints of cedar wood, forest floor and incense are all present in this multi-layered, rich, concentrated wine, which should also drink well for 12-15 years.

Always coming across like a Napa version of a Pessac-Léognan because of the wet pebbles, smoky barbecue and stony notes, which give it a striking minerality, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard exhibits more blueberry, black raspberry and licorice. It again offers full-bodied, super-concentrated flavors that are pure, stunningly intense, and a total hedonistic and intellectual turn-on. This wine also needs 3-4 years of cellaring and should keep for up to three decades. 96+ (RP)

Racy and voluptuous in the glass, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane is another wine that is showing very well today. A host of dark fleshed red fruits, flowers and spices are pushed forward, all with the soft contours that are so typical of this site in St. Helena. There is a lot to like in this bold, sumptuous Cabernet Sauvignon. (AG)