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Robert Parker Wine Advocate
2013 Schrader Cellars CCS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA
VINTAGE
In 2013 the grapes enjoyed month upon glorious month of effortless sunny days followed by clear, cool nights. Warm spring temperatures gave way to an early budbreak and the consistent, dry weather afforded an optimal fruit set. The favorable conditions seamlessly continued through the summer and we faced none of the rogue heat spikes or rain threats that might otherwise challenge a strong vintage. Once in barrel, the wine continued to develop and gain profound flavors that led to winemaker Thomas Brown stating "These are the finest wines I have ever made.
PROFILE
Hailed by legendary critic Robert Parker as "one of those incredibly hedonistic , yet intellectually satisfying wines that fills the olfactory senses and saturates the palate with incredible blue and black fruits," this young wine brilliantly carries forward the tradition of excellence established by the Schrader CCS marque. On the nose the wine releases notes of Blackberry and Cassis intermixed with notes of graphite. Nobly structured with great balance and richness, this immense wine offers an astonishingly long, luxurious finish.
OAKVILLE: Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard
Originally planted by pioneer Hamilton Crabb in 1868, To Kalon – meaning 'highest beauty' in Greek – is a noble first growth estate in Oakville that has established itself as the preeminent source of Napa Valley’s finest grapes. The vineyard is defined by its high mineral content and exceptional drainage, offering optimal north-south sun exposure by day with cool coastal breezes at night that we feel is the ideal environment for growing our Cabernet Sauvignon.