2011 Alpha Omega Beckstoffer Dr Crane Cabernet Sauvignon

Alpha Omega in Rutherford was founded by Robin Baggett and Eric Sklar, who both have wine industry backgrounds. The winemaker is Jean Hoefliger and French wine consultant Michel Rolland is also part of the winemaking team. The estate makes Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Henrik Poulsen is winemaker. Consulting winemakers are Jean Hoefliger and Michel Rolland. Robert Parker has written that the winery “continues to turn out impressive wines that merit attention from consumers.”

Dr. Crane Vineyard was originally planted in 1858 by Napa Valley pioneer Dr. George Belden Crane. It was acquired by Beckstoffer Vineyards in 1997. Located in the city of St. Helena, the 25-acre vineyard is planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Beckstoffer Vineyards owns and farms more than 3,600 acres of highly prestigious grape growing vineyards in Napa Valley, Mendocino County and the Red Hills of Lake County. A senior executive with Heublein in the 1960s, Andy Beckstoffer is credited with steering Napa Valley vintners towards improving farming and the quality of the grapes used for wine. Grapes from any Beckstoffer vineyards are considered among the finest available in California.

One of the most widely grown grape varieties, it can be found in nearly every wine growing region. A cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a hardy vine that produces a full-bodied wine with high tannins and great aging potential.