NV Cliff Lede, Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon Vertical (2012-2014) 6x75cl

Robert Parker 96/99/99

Another brilliant offering from one of the true first-growth sites in Napa Valley is the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard. Graphite, creme de cassis and spice box characteristics jump from the glass of this dense purple-colored Cabernet Sauvignon. Thick but fresh with gorgeously ripe fruit, a full-bodied mouthfeel and a long finish, this is a terrific example of Cabernet Sauvignon. It will drink well young and over the next 15+ years. Another black/purple wine is the Cliff Lede 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard. Flirting with perfection, this wine boasts blueberry and blackberry notes, spring flowers a hint of charcoal and subtle toast, a full-bodied mouthfeel and stunning concentration. It s the hallmark of purity and the multi-dimensional texture and length that make for a profound Cabernet Sauvignon that s accessible. It promises to hit its peak in 8-10 years and last 30 or more. From obviously purchased grapes, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon looks like dark pen ink, has that inimitable and compelling aromatic expression that the To Kalon Vineyard seems to offer up – graphite, blueberry, blackberry, cassis, fruitcake and spice. With incredibly rich blue fruits, black fruits, a full body, opulent, voluptuously textured and sensational, the wine still tastes like a barrel sample, but even at that, I found it nearly impossible to spit out. This is a killer effort, a magnificent wine with a potential three-digit score with a few more years of bottle age. [01/01/2016]