Deep purple-black with a baked blackberries and black forest cake-scented nose plus hints of licorice, tar and dried sage, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is full, generous and spicy in the mouth with lovely, ripe tannins and great length.
Reviews:
- Wine Advocate: Deep purple-black with a baked blackberries and black forest cake-scented nose plus hints of licorice, tar and dried sage, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is full, generous and spicy in the mouth with lovely, ripe tannins and great length.
- Jeb Dunnuck: The 175-case 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard checks in as 100% Cabernet Sauvignon (aged all in new oak) that offers that classic, earthy, darker style that seems to be the hallmark of this incredible site. Black licorice, darker fruits, scorched earth, leafy herbs and tobacco all give way to a full-bodied, unctuous, concentrated beauty that shines for its purity, depth and texture. It’s a brilliant example of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon to enjoy over the coming 20-25 years. Winemaker Mike Smith releases both a bevy of Syrahs and Bordeaux blends under his Myriad label. He’s hit a home run in both 2015 and 2016 and these wines need to be on any wine lover’s radar.
Producer Information
Mt. Brave is a tribute to the pioneering spirit of those who settled the rugged terrain of Mt. Veeder during the 1800s and an homage to the Wappo Indians, “the brave ones,” who were the original inhabitants of this extraordinary place. The Mt. Brave Vineyard, once the Chateau Potelle Vineyard, was established decades ago at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 1,800 feet. While Mt. Veeder is cool, Mt. Brave sits above the fog line, with morning sun warming the grapes each day. Soils are a sparse, gravelly loam. Nutrients and minerals are scant, resulting in tiny berries with concentrated and complex flavors. At harvest, small lug boxes must be carefully moved up and down the steep slopes to protect both vines and vineyard workers.
