2019 Janzen 'Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard' Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Iconic, synonymous with excellence, the celebrated Beckstoffer To Kalon vineyard has a long history of producing amazingly robust, yet balanced and elegant wines. Centered in the heart of Oakville, an alluvial fan enriches the soil with mineral deposits. Excellent sun exposure and cool evenings allow for optimal ripening conditions.
Seductive aromas of crushed berries, violets and fresh leather. A cornucopia of black and red fruit on first sip, buttressed with notes of tobacco and coffee. Rich texture and mouthfeel lead to a long yet elegant finish. We see this wine aging gracefully for 15-20 years.
Claus Janzen doesn't shy away from taking the road less traveled. He originally made his mark on the local wine scene with the wholly unique "Bacio Divino," arguably Napa's most successful Tuscan-inspired red. When he moved that project into the world of Cabernet, he did so with the philosophy that it would be the vineyards rather than the blend that would drive the program's success. So, like many other notable Cabernet producers, Claus turned to vine guru Andy Beckstoffer for fruit, and the rest as they say, is history. With the help of lauded winemaker Kirk Venge, he has created a range of Napa Cabernets with completely unique personalities, and the critics have taken note. He's even dialed in a sensational Pinot Noir from a serious vineyard down south. Some of our favorite wines year in and year out, you'd be wise to pay attention to this lauded producer.
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Janzen Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard comes from one of the greatest sites in the valley and is all varietal. Its ruby/purple color is followed by a perfumed, expressive bouquet of red and black currants, flowery incense, leather, chocolate, and baking spices. It's medium to full-bodied on the palate and nicely balanced, with velvety tannins, a round, supple mouthfeel, and a great finish. It's drinking nicely already, but I see no need to delay gratification either. Nevertheless, it should have 15 years of prime drinking.
Wine Enthusiast
Rich and layered in forest pine, tobacco and leather, this vineyard-designate shows a tremendous grip of tannin and generous oak. Vanilla, brown sugar and dark cherry accentuate this bolder, bigger wine.