“I also loved the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon, which has a more exotic, in-your-face style as well as more notes of blue fruits, flowery incense, violets, and spice. Full-bodied, balanced, and elegant, it too has a great mid-palate, nicely integrated oak, and some chalky minerality on the finish. Drink bottles any time over the coming 15 years or more.”

“A big and rich To Kalon, yet it is dry and attractively tannic with lots of crushed-berry and terra-cotta character. It’s broad-shouldered and spread across the palate. Give it time. 81% cabernet sauvignon and 19% cabernet franc. Better after 2021.”

“The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon To Kalon Vineyard, in reality a co-ferment of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc, is gorgeous. Inky dark fruit, licorice and lavender are given an extra savory kick by the Franc. Racy and super-exotic, this blend works so well. This is one of the most distinctive wines I have tasted from To Kalon in some time, not to mention a positively stunning 2017. Red fruit flavors and floral notes lead into the textured, inviting finish.”

“A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc aged 22 months in 100% new French Taransaud and Sylvain barrels, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon is very deep garnet-purple colored and gives up expressive Black Forest cake, blackberry pie and warm cassis notes with wafts of exotic spices, tree bark, underbrush and charcuterie with a touch of tapenade. Full-bodied, the palate has loads of earthy accents complementing the black fruit core, with a firm grip of chewy tannins, finishing on a mineral note.”

“Bery forward, with warmed fig, steeped blackberry and acai reduction aromas and flavors, supported by singed alder and expresso cream threads on the finish. Drink now through 2025.”