Our Dr. Crane Cab represents the epitome of balance and gracefulness. The trademark lifted, floral nose, with blue fruits accented with berries, earth and spice, leads into a palate that walks the line of vibrancy and power, delicacy aligned with richness and depth, and is our most beguiling, and truly elegant, wine.
Released — February 1st, 2024
88 cases produced
Tech SheetWinemaker Matt Sands has turned out perfect from the Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard in St. Helena with his Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc in 2021. Here, a barrel sample offers Cabernet Sauvignon as 92% of the blend, with Cabernet Franc filling out the rest. In the typical Lithology style, this is an inky black wine with a sumptuously silky and satiny profile, but in 2021, there is freshness, lift, and tension. The full-bodied palate offers fine, intricate tannins that are assertive yet harmonious with the dark berry fruit. At the same time, a rich vein of iron-like minerality and earth mingles with fragrant cedarwood, herbs and slivers of dark chocolate on a long and satisfying finish—polished, expressive, and delicious, all from an exceptional site in a terrific vintage. I am absolutely a candidate for a 100-point wine and will taste it again in the early months of 2024.
Located at the base of the western hills in St. Helena, this celebrated vineyard was first planted in 1858 by Dr. George Belden Crane. The vines here are vigorous with extensive leaf coverage as they thrive in the rocky terrain and gravelly loam soils. Producing wines of unparalleled quality and uniqueness, this vineyard is a testament to the excellence of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.