The 2021 Macauley Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon is a standout wine from Napa Valley, California. Crafted by producer Macauley, this Cabernet Sauvignon hails from the renowned Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville. Known for its exceptional quality, the wine is the product of careful fermentation processes, including open-top barrel fermentation and cold soaking, which contribute to its robust character.
This vintage received high praise from esteemed reviewers. Decanter awarded it a remarkable 98 points, highlighting its "robust tannic structure" and the "panoply of crunchy redberry fruit, black cherry, and spiced plums." The review notes the wine's elegant infusion of brown spices and wild herbs, paired with a "rich graphite mineral intensity" and a long, focused finish. The freshness of this wine is particularly emphasized, making it a seamless expression of the famous vineyard.
Jeb Dunnuck also gave it an impressive score, ranging from 96 to 98 points. In his review, Dunnuck described the wine as having notes of "blueberries, black raspberries, and cassis" with an underlying aroma of "flowery incense and spice." He praised the wine's "wonderful purity" and highlighted its "building tannins" and "great overall, concentrated, balanced profile."
The production of this wine is limited, with total cases not exceeding 2,600, ensuring its exclusivity. The collaboration between Mac Watson and Kirk Venge, who have been making wine together since the first vintage, plays a significant role in the wine's excellence. Venge's expertise in winemaking, despite his initial reservations about certain fermentation techniques, results in a wine that reflects both tradition and innovation.
In summary, the 2021 Macauley Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon is a noteworthy wine that showcases the best of Napa Valley's winemaking prowess. Its rich, complex flavors and high scores from top reviewers make it a must-try for Cabernet Sauvignon enthusiasts.