2005 Schrader "Beckstoffer To Kalon - CCS" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

“The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon CCS (14.6% alcohol and 175 cases) is absolutely out of this world. I have given more perfect scores to this cuvée than any of the other Schrader wines. Made from Clone 4 with slight additions of Clone 6 and 337, it is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, like all these wines from the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard. This wine has a glorious nose of licorice, cedar wood, vanillin, creme de cassis, blackberry and graphite. Super-rich and velvety, with sweet, supple tannins, an opulent full-bodied mouthfeel, and a skyscraper-like finish, this prodigious wine is drinking beautifully, and just now coming into its adolescence. It should go on for another 20-25 years. (RP)” (06/2015)

“Deliciously pure, supple, focused and rich in ripe fruit flavors, with a medley of dark berry, raspberry and blueberry notes that are refreshingly supple and delicate. Most impressive for the finesse, charm and grace. At a good point now, but there's no rush. (JL)” (12/2015)