2001 Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Oakville

From the undeniable first-growth quality site comes the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard. When the fruit from this vineyard is handled properly, the resulting wine often flirts with perfection. Hobbs? 2001 boasts a dense blue/purple color along with an incredibly pure nose of spice box, cedarwood, creme de cassis, blueberry pie and subtle smoke as well as graphite notes that could easily pass for a first- or second-growth Pauillac. Broad, expansive, full-bodied flavors reveal stunning purity, amazing depth and richness, and a finish that goes on for nearly a minute. Still youthful, but oh, so impressive, it is hard to resist now, but it should be even better in 5-8 years, and keep for 30-40+ years. Review Date: June 2011

Smooth, dark, rich and seductive a remarkably complex and concentrated wine brimming with ripe, silky currant, blackberry, black cherry and fresh earth and pencil lead nuances. It firms up nicely on the finish, exhibiting ripe, flavorful tannins and a long, persistent finish that reveals extra depth facets. Drink now through 2012. 895 cases made. ?JL Review Date: October 2004