The 2019 Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon from the Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard presents a compelling portrait of Napa Valley's winemaking prowess. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the renowned St Helena site boasts a remarkable level of craftsmanship, as noted by several distinguished reviewers.
Jeb Dunnuck praises this wine as "pure Cabernet magic," awarding it a perfect score of 100. He highlights its "deep blackcurrants, smoked tobacco, lead pencil, and a kiss of spring flowers," along with its "full-bodied richness" and "silky tannins." Dunnuck emphasizes the wine's impressive balance of power and elegance, recommending decanting if consumed soon and suggesting it will age gracefully for decades.
Decanter and James Suckling both accorded high praise, each awarding it a score of 97. Decanter describes the wine's "opulent black fruit" and "sun-scorched wild herbs," with a "juicy acidity" that maintains lightness and balance. Suckling notes the presence of "blackberries, hazelnuts, blackcurrants, and flowers," coupled with "firm, polished tannins" and a "lovely, creamy texture," calling it "ethereal and weightless."
Vinous appreciates the wine's "terrific fruit presence and tons of raciness," awarding it 96 points, while Robert Parker's Wine Advocate and Wine Spectator both offer scores of 95. Parker's review mentions "red raspberries and cherries," with a "supple feel and fine-grained tannins." Wine Spectator describes a "rich, polished style," with "waves of warm cassis and plum sauce."
With an alcohol content of 14.8% and a production run of just 898 cases, this Cabernet Sauvignon exemplifies the excellence of Napa Valley. It is both approachable now and poised to evolve beautifully with age, making it a standout choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike.