Alejandro Bulgheroni Lithology Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
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Jeb
Dunnuck -
Robert
Parker -
Wine
Spectator
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Winemaker Notes
Here the Cabernet comes to us typically flawless, and the wines are as such. There is blue fruit, blueberries, black plums, blackberries, and cassis to the aromas, as well as stones, mineral, chocolate, fresh tobacco, and subtle herbs. It is incredibly full-bodied, but at the same time effortlessly drinkable, with ultra-smooth tannins and a positive, long, upturned finish. 70-75% new French oak is the norm for us with Dr. Crane, and those flavors are absorbed to become a vanillin complexity, sweetness, and length. An unbelievable wine.
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Possibly the wine of the vintage, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Lithology Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is another incredible wine from this estate that has everything: stunning complexity, full-bodied richness, flawless balance, and incredible length. Revealing a dense purple color as well as Graves-like notes of blackcurrants, cold fireplace, graphite, chocolate, and smoked tobacco, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, flawless balance, and ultra-fine tannins. Based on 99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Cabernet Franc that was brought up 20 months in 70% new French oak, this thrilling 2018 offers pleasure today yet will evolve for 30-40+ years. Hats off to the team at Alejandro Bulgheroni!
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Very deep purple-black in color, the 2018 Lithology Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard charges out of the gate with intense scents of chocolate-covered cherries, blueberry compote and crème de cassis, leading to nuances of star anise, mocha, black olives and iron ore. The decadently rich, full-bodied palate packs an impressive punch, delivering impactful black and blue fruit preserves with loads of mineral and exotic spice layers, supported by fine-grained tannins and just enough freshness, finishing with epic length.
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Wine Spectator
Polished, with a rounded feel from start to finish, featuring warmed fig, blackberry and plum preserve flavors that roll through, plus chocolate and sweet tobacco notes. Shows a smoldering hint on the finish, as the fruit lingers steadily. Drink now.
Other Vintages
2017-
Robert
Parker -
Jeb
Dunnuck -
Wine
Spectator -
James
Suckling
One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris.
Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.