2016 Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras

All of the Paul Hobbs Napa Valley wines are tremendous in 2016, but the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard may very well be the best of the bunch. Vertical in feel, with explosive energy, the Piedras dazzles from the very first taste. Graphite, black cherry, menthol and crushed rocks are some of the many aromas and flavors that open up in the glass, but it is the wine's pure, driving energy and overall focus that leave the strongest impression. The 2016 is simply a great expression of this St. Helena site. There's nothing else to say.

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard opens with provocative notions of crushed rocks, fertile loam and truffles with a core of warm cassis, blackberry pie and wild blueberries with touches of camphor and cloves. Medium to full-bodied and built like a brick house, it packs in the muscular fruit layers with compelling red fruit sparks, framed by firm, grainy tannins and finishing very long and very earthy. 402 cases produced.

The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is a total stunner. Soaring aromatics set the stage for blockbuster Cabernet endowed with striking purity and definition. All of the signatures of this St. Helena site come through in this beautifully layered, exquisite Cabernet from Paul Hobbs. I can't wait to taste the Piedras from bottle. Wow!