2008 Schrader "CCS - Beckstoffer To Kalon" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

“For some reason I have a sweet spot for Schrader’s 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon CCS, which, like the 2007, merits a perfect rating. That should set up some very interesting competitive tastings in the future. Made from a particular block of Clone 4 planted in the Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard, there is something just broader, deeper, more multidimensional and more subtle without losing any of the great intensity, purity and richness these wines possess that gives the CCS an amazing character. Keep in mind, as my editor pointed out to me, this is the third straight vintage of this cuvee to merit a perfect score, which must be the first of its kind in 32 years of critiquing wines. Blueberry pie intermixed with creme de cassis, licorice, subtle oak and forest floor notes are followed by an extraordinary wine of staggering richness, luxurious fruit and seamlessness. This is the kind of wine that simply has it all, and I think it could easily be inserted in a tasting against the greatest first-growth Bordeaux or any other profound Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa or elsewhere and hold its own, if not dominate the tasting. There is a remarkable character to this wine that will be fascinating to follow over the next 25-30 years. (RP)” (12/2010)

“Gorgeous aromas of ripe blueberry, wild berry and strawberry are rich, with notes of loamy earth. Full-bodied, this is very elegant, delicate and detailed, building both fruit intensity and dimension without gaining weight, ending with a return to the berry pie medley. (JL)” (11/2011)