2016 Realm Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard

The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is also one of the most impressive wines in this flight. Rich, heady and explosive, with tremendous intensity, the 2016 hits all the right notes. Lavender, spice, menthol, licorice and black plum are nicely pushed forward, but more than anything else, I am struck by the wine's energy and pure power. This is such a gorgeous wine.

From a rocky site outside of St. Helena, just next to Las Piedras, the stunning 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) boasts a deep, gravelly, intellectual profile that’s reminiscent of the 2015 Haut Brion on steroids. Blackcurrants, chocolate, cold fireplace, and smoke tobacco all flow to a full-bodied, deep, layered, lengthy Cabernet Sauvignon that takes plenty of time to unwind in the glass. This is structured, backward, and deep, with serious power, yet it excels in its complex and layered style just as much. I suspect it will warrant a triple-digit score in 3-5 years and keep for 3-4 decades.

This is very flamboyant and luscious on the nose with fresh herbs, such as thyme and sage. Full body and layers of ripe fruit and richness. Polished yet powerful. Drink in 2021.