schrader rbs to kalon cabernet sauvignon 2019 750ml

“Lush aromatics of cassis and complements of pencil shavings and graphite, it’s just a really elegant wine that’s drinkable upon release—but also has the structure and tannins to carry it in aging.” — Carol Schrader

VINEYARD

Beckstoffer’s vineyard in Oakville, first planted in 1868 by viticultural and winemaking icon Hamilton Crabb, has long been regarded as the source of Napa Valley’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. This section of the vineyard is situated in the heart of the valley. An alluvial fan provides excellent mineral deposits, and the rich soils are filled with marine sediment. The vines receive full sun and optimal heat during the day and are cooled by marine fog at night. These conditions allow each of the three clones planted in this vineyard (4, 6, and 337) to display its own unique character, and this celebration of individuality is the essence of Schrader.

TASTING NOTES
Elegance and finesse are the hallmarks of the 2019 Schrader RBS. Made from pure clone 337 Cabernet, the wine offers an extravagant mix of blue and purple fruits seamlessly woven together to create a magnificent expression of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Upon entry, the wine delivers copious amounts of cassis, wild blueberries, and roasted plums laced with a mosaic of violets, licorice, tobacco leaf, and fragrant earth. Medium- to full-bodied, the silky tannins and velvety texture make this wine eminently approachable in its youth, and the underlying firm backbone provides for enhanced richness with additional cellar aging.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM

JD97, Jeb Dunnuck

"Lots of violets, flowery incense, cassis, and spice notes emerge from the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard RBS, a full-bodied, silky, elegant 2019 that shines just as much for its purity and balance as its richness and depth. Possessing good acidity, a lively, vibrant mouthfeel, supple tannins, and a great finish, it has plenty of up-front appeal yet should easily evolve for a solid 20 years if properly stored. Best After 2021"\

RP97, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is Clone 337, matured 18 months in 100% new Darnajou and Taransaud barrels. Marked on the nose by red berries, cherries and cedar, plus delicate cinnamon and clove shadings, this is a plush, concentrated full-bodied wine with a core of firmness to it and a long, lingering finish, both positive signs for aging. It's one of the more approachable Schrader wines this vintage, but it should easily go another two decades. Best After 2025."

JS97, James Suckling

"Racy, dark nose with pulpy character. Dried lychee, lavender and sandalwood. This is quite juicy, ample and almost a bit ethereal, despite the color and high alcohol. There is a fine twist of salinity on the palate that runs smoothly with lots of purple flowers. Really immaculate. Almost soft texture."

WS96, Wine Spectator

"Gushes with pure violet, plum and cassis notes, all flecked with hints of black tea, anise and sassafras. Driven, with a graphite underpinning providing a spine that stays in the background as the fruit stretches out. Approachable already but no rush at all. Drink now"

750ml Bottle