Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Wow. Such character and style to this Dr. Crane with lavender, rosemary, flowers and sage as well as dark blueberries. Yet always reserved and focused. Full-bodied, ultra-refined and super long on the finish. A triumph. Drink or hold.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
More blackberry and cassis fruit are present in the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard. The wet gravel minerality component has not yet emerged, but I’m sure it will as it has done so in every effort that comes from this vineyard source. It offers a deep opaque ruby/purple color with a confiture of blue and black fruits (mostly black), licorice, subtle toast and a long, full-bodied, opulent finish. It will age easily for 15+ years.
Range: 91-93
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.