Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Planted on gravelly loam soils on the west side of St. Helena, this distinctive cabernet reveals a rich garnet color and expressive layers of blackberry compote, cigar box, and rose petal fragrances. The palate presents a superb structure with plush tannins that frame a core of blackcurrant and kirsch, leading to rising notes of chocolate shavings and spiced clove that intermingles with an intriguing graphite complexity, creating a lifted and mineral-laced finish.

"Needing plenty of air to show at its best, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is a sensational, gorgeous Napa Valley Cabernet that delivers the goods like only this region can. Pure Cabernet magic on the nose, with deep blackcurrants, smoked tobacco, lead pencil, and a kiss of spring flowers as well as a beautiful Pessac-Leognan-like scorched earth character, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, silky tannins, no hard edges, and a great, great finish. It's one of those wines that builds incrementally on the palate and it's only after the second or third sip that you realize how special this wine is. It also offers that rare mix of power and elegance that's the hallmark of all great wines. It needs a couple of hours in the decanter if drinking any time soon. Hats off to Paul Hobbs for an incredible Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon." 100 Points Jeb Dunnuck