2021
Lithology
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard

Cabernet Sauvignon

Many have referred to 2021 as the vintage of the century for Napa Valley Cabernet. The vintage brought the lightest yields in California since 2011, after continued drought and scattered spring frost. An early September heatwave brought harvest forward.

This Cabernet Sauvignon (95%) and Cabernet Franc (5%) shows soaring aromas of blackberry and black cherry meet tobacco, savory herbs, and graphite. The palate is stylishly concentrated and seamless, rich in texture and layers, leading to a long, mineral-laced finish.

Tasting Notes

A wine with excellent concentration, our 2021 To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon has notes of black fruit, sage, root beer, and vanilla with a hint of coconut at the end.

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Technical Details

Blend95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc
WinemakerMatt Sands, Philippe Melka, Michel Rolland
AppellationOakville
Harvest DateSeptember 29, 2021
Alcohol15.2%
Production389 cases

98 Jeb Dunnuck

I was able to taste two samples of the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Lithology Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, one fermented in concrete and the other fermented in French oak. Both showed brilliantly, with wonderful purity of fruit, the dense, concentrated style of the vintage, and just about flawless balance. As with most top 2021s, short-term cellaring is going to be the name of the game.

Vineyard

First planted in 1868, To Kalon is one of the finest “Grand Cru” vineyards in the world. Our wines are crafted from the heart of this iconic vineyard where the vines grow slower and provide a full canopy every year. Influenced by the cooler conditions and longer hang time, the harvest is usually around two weeks later than our other vineyards. These wines are celebrated for their extraordinary depth and exquisite character.