Grown on the west side of St. Helena, this distinctive cabernet sauvignon clearly displays its origins with a rich garnet hue and sophisticated aromas of cacao bean, crème de cassis, and sweet tobacco on the nose. Layered, with a superb structure, the wine offers impressions of blueberry coulis, black raspberry, and savory herbs like Herbs de Provence. The weighty mid-palate unveils anise spice and a graphite mineral note that combines with a fresh acidity that extends the long finish.
Critic Ratings
Jeb Dunnuck - Rated 98:
Coming from a warmer site on the west side of St. Helena, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is deeper plum/purple hue and boasts a ripe, powerful nose of black fruits, spring flowers, lead pencil, and scorched earth. Deep, rich, full-bodied, and concentrated, it has a multi-dimensional, layered mouthfeel, ultra-fine tannins, the vintage's freshness and purity, and a blockbuster of a finish. This heavenly Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and have 30+ years of overall longevity. It will probably merit a triple digit rating at maturity.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Review - Rated 96:
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard offers up delicate sage and thyme notes, hints of dusty earth and plenty of delicious black cherry fruit. It's medium to full-bodied in the mouth, rich but supple, harmonious and easy to drink, turning softly dusty on the long finish. Compared to the Nathan Coombs Estate, it's more nuanced and complex as a young wine but perhaps not as concentrated or potentially long lived.
Wine Spectator Review - Rated 95:
Features a fresh, vibrant core of blackberry, black cherry and raspberry preserve notes harnessed by hints of taut cast iron, warm earth and dried anise. Soundly structured through the lengthy finish, this offers the fruit for balance. Just needs some patience to settle in and unfurl. Best from 2026 through 2040.
James Suckling - Rated 93:
Spice, walnut-husk, cedar and currant aromas. Medium to full body. Juicy fruit. Cherries and currants. Medium finish. Fresh herbs and thyme. Drink or hold.
