There are some very long and in-depth accounts of the sordid history of To Kalon, but we’re just here to give you a little taste of terroir. Because, as a wise woman once said, “ain’t nobody got time for that.”
It’s a Long Story
It started a few million years ago, so there’s only so much credit any of the named parties can take in the story of To Kalon. The short version: through the magic of time and change, a patch of land in a verdant valley proved exceptional for the growing of Cabernet Sauvignon. Discoverer H.W. Crabb was no geologist, though he did show up to California looking for gold. Instead, he found a gravelly strata fanning out from the base of the Mayacamas. He planted vines, started playing with wine, and stumbled into renown as one of America’s top winemakers with his To-Kalon Wine Company. Dumb luck or Faustian bargain? Either way, it went south fast – phylloxera and bankruptcy put an end to his rule. Prohibition and fire ended the next. The king is dead, long live the king.
Seriously, is this land blessed…or cursed?
Today we know To Kalon as Napa’s “first growth” and we bow down before grapes that can do no wrong. The original property is split six ways, more or less, but only Beckstoffer and Mondavi have earned the right to use the name. The rest stay well clear of the bitter legal wrestling match involved. But the vines don’t mind and the soil is just as sweet.
For our To-Kalon Twelve, we’re focusing on those entities that fought the fight and earned the right. If you notice a generous nod to Beckstoffer, it’s because his respect for terroir is uncompromising, and those lucky enough to score a ration from his vineyards count themselves blessed. Great winemakers know that great wine begins long before the crush and Andy Beckstoffer is the man they trust to raise the fruit they need in pursuit of perfection. You could say we all have a crush on Andy.
This tour of To Kalon, and especially ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon’ is a true exploration of a world-renowned sliver of Napa Valley. Subtle differences in vintages and winemaking style shine when other variables are removed. We hope you enjoy this extraordinary case and a deep dive into some of the most sought-after Cabernet Sauvignon in the world.
P.S. If you’re curious about other properties quietly sharing this hallowed terroir, that’s a great conversation to have with a Scout.
It’s a Long Story
It started a few million years ago, so there’s only so much credit any of the named parties can take in the story of To Kalon. The short version: through the magic of time and change, a patch of land in a verdant valley proved exceptional for the growing of Cabernet Sauvignon. Discoverer H.W. Crabb was no geologist, though he did show up to California looking for gold. Instead, he found a gravelly strata fanning out from the base of the Mayacamas. He planted vines, started playing with wine, and stumbled into renown as one of America’s top winemakers with his To-Kalon Wine Company. Dumb luck or Faustian bargain? Either way, it went south fast – phylloxera and bankruptcy put an end to his rule. Prohibition and fire ended the next. The king is dead, long live the king.
Seriously, is this land blessed…or cursed?
Today we know To Kalon as Napa’s “first growth” and we bow down before grapes that can do no wrong. The original property is split six ways, more or less, but only Beckstoffer and Mondavi have earned the right to use the name. The rest stay well clear of the bitter legal wrestling match involved. But the vines don’t mind and the soil is just as sweet.
For our To-Kalon Twelve, we’re focusing on those entities that fought the fight and earned the right. If you notice a generous nod to Beckstoffer, it’s because his respect for terroir is uncompromising, and those lucky enough to score a ration from his vineyards count themselves blessed. Great winemakers know that great wine begins long before the crush and Andy Beckstoffer is the man they trust to raise the fruit they need in pursuit of perfection. You could say we all have a crush on Andy.
This tour of To Kalon, and especially ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon’ is a true exploration of a world-renowned sliver of Napa Valley. Subtle differences in vintages and winemaking style shine when other variables are removed. We hope you enjoy this extraordinary case and a deep dive into some of the most sought-after Cabernet Sauvignon in the world.
P.S. If you’re curious about other properties quietly sharing this hallowed terroir, that’s a great conversation to have with a Scout.