This is a really juicy bottle with aromas of blackberries, terracotta, hot stone, flowers, walnuts and black olives, following through to a full-bodied yet right and compact palate with silky tannins and a chewy finish. Excellent length. Needs time to come together, but already superb for the vintage. Better after 2022.

This “Schrader” label comes from Beckstoffer’s To Kalon vineyard in Oakville, produced from clone 4 grown on the C2 block (75%), clone 6 from the D2 block (12.5%) and clone 337 from the B2 block (12.5%). One hundred percent Cabernet Sauvignon, it was aged in 100% new oak for 20 months. Very deep purple-black colored, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard sails out of the glass with pretty scents of kirsch, blackcurrant cordial, dark chocolate and candied violets with a core of warm plums and blackberry pie plus a touch of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers loads of mineral and earthy sparks among the black fruit layers, supported with firm, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown

Beautifully pure plum and blackberry notes gush forth, with melted licorice and sweet toast elements cascading in on the finish. Shows serious depth for a 2017, getting denser and more focused as this moves through the finish, a great sign for cellaring. Extra violet, graphite and sweet spice accents create a gorgeous backdrop. Tempting now, but best to wait. Best from 2021 through 2040. — J.M.