Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer – Dr. Crane Vineyard 2012 750ml

Of the three Beckstoffer Vineyards, it’s pretty much a joyride as to which one readers may prefer. The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane moves more toward the wet rock, blueberry, raspberry fruit spectrum, but still stays dark and foreboding, very concentrated and full-bodied. The great terroir comes through and the wine is distinctive, singular, opulent and rich. Another fabulous success from Paul Hobbs and one more showcase wine for this great vineyard. Anticipated maturity: now-2032.

• Country: United States
• Region: California
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Sub Appellation: Saint Helena
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red

Varietal

Cabernet Sauvignon

By far and away the most recognized and widely grown red wine grape varietal in the world is the Cabernet Sauvignon. First cultivated in the 18th century in France, this wonderful cross of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc grapes has long since been the most important varietal for red wines across the globe. Now grown everywhere from its native France to the furthest reaches of the New World, Cabernet Sauvignon is adored and prized by wineries for its hardiness and resistance to rot, as well as its large and sharp flavors and wonderful capability for fine aging Indeed, many of the finest wines of history and the modern age would be simply unimaginable without Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, with the famed wineries of Bordeaux and other important regions using it as the primary grape in their oak aged produce. High tannin levels, acidity and powerful flavors are the characteristics most commonly associated with this varietal, however, when blended and slowly aged, it is capable of a world of flavors and aromas unmatched by any other grape.