Always one of the gems from this team, the 2018 Cabernet Franc Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is 100% Cabernet Franc from arguably one of the most famous vineyards in Napa Valley. Its dense purple color is followed by a sweet nose of mulberries, blueberries, and kirsch fruits as well as graphite, candied violets, and chocolate. Rich and full-bodied, it has a layered, opulent mouthfeel and plenty of sweet, chalky tannins. There are ample, classic Cabernet Franc floral and earthy nuances, and I love its overall balance.

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Cabernet Franc Beckstoffer To Kalon needs a little coaxing to reveal slowly emerging scents of stewed red and black plums, chocolate-covered cherries, mulberries and rose oil with hints of cast iron pan, cinnamon stick, graphite and wild sage. The full-bodied palate is packed with red and black fruit preserves flavors, supported by firm, ripe grainy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long with a fragrant lift.

From the famous site more well-known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, this rare bottling is muted in violet and blue fruit, elegantly powerful and dense in style. The muscular tannin profile underscores a impressive concentration of power that finds its way to a velvety, integrated and ultimately balanced finish of baking spice and clove.