Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
This is a new wine in the TOR range—a very clever co-fermented blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc coming from three blocks at Beckstoffer's To Kalon vineyard: B, F and D blocks. The 2018 Red Blend Pure Magic Beckstoffer To Kalon B F D prances out of the glass with flamboyant scents of black currant pastilles, red currant jelly, stewed plums and Morello cherries with suggestions of underbrush, charcoal, bouquet garni and lavender plus a touch of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate struts out a solid frame of exquisitely ripe tannins and bold freshness supporting the multilayered black and red berry flavors, finishing with epic length and an amazing display of mineral fireworks. 125 cases were made.
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James Suckling
Aromas of tile, blackberry, blueberry, mint, and flowers with some bark, following through to a full body with round, juicy tannins and loads of flavor. The round, creamy tannins are layered and voluptuous. But it tightens right at the end. Cabernet sauvignon with about 20% cabernet franc. Co-fermented.
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.