2021 Vice Versa "Beckstoffer To Kalon" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is another gorgeously concentrated, full-bodied, ultra-fine, and pure release from this team. All varietal aged 18 months in 75% new French barrels, its vivid purple hue is followed by classic notes of red and black currants, chalky minerality, flowery incense and hints of roasted coffee. It stays relatively compact and focused on the palate, with fine tannins, just about perfect balance, and a great finish. It's a more restrained yet still classic To Kalon that will benefit from just a few years in the cellar and evolve for 20-25 years.

Once again, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is one of my favorites among the current lineup from Vice Versa. Gentle sage and pipe tobacco nuances accent ripe red and black cherries, plus there are hints of fine suede and complex notes of dried spices. It's full-bodied and concentrated, richly tannic but ripe, silky and fine. There's a certain elegance and generosity here, despite the large-scale tannins. Great stuff. (JC) 97+