2012 Realm Cellars, Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Bottle (750ml)

RP97+ The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon emerges from another first-growth vineyard that was acquired by Andy Beckstoffer in 1993, and planted with multiple clones of Cabernet Sauvignon and a small amount of Cabernet Franc. The original vineyard was planted in 1868, but the present one consists of nearly 90 acres. The 2012 reveals incredible complexity and density with notes of Christmas fruitcake, baking spices, licorice, creme de cassis and forest floor. Full-bodied with the vintages opulence and drama, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon was fashioned from Clones 4 and 337. It should age effortlessly for 25-30 years.
Realm Cellars, Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville

AG96 The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard is a very pretty wine, not exactly the adjectives that most often come to mind for this bottling. I am quite surprised to see how elegant and refined this is, especially given the approach favored by Realm at the time. Red/purplish fruit, crushed flowers mint and dried herbs are all nicely delineated. This is a fine showing, the best yet for the 2012 To-Kalon.