2006 Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer Tokalon Cabernet Magnum ( 1.5lts)

96 WA

Not surprisingly, the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard is a profound Cabernet Sauvignon. The equivalent of a Bordeaux first-growth Pauillac, it boasts abundant quantities of creme de cassis, lead pencil shavings, cedar, and subtle smoky oak and espresso notes. Atypically sexy for a 2006, it is full-bodied with oodles of concentrated black fruits, stunning purity and length, and a finish that lasts for nearly a minute. It should hit its apogee in 3-4 years, and last for three decades or more. Rated 96+ by Robert Parker, Issue #180, December 2008

--The Wine Advocate

93 WS

Intense and concentrated, if a bit muddled in its delivery of earthy currant, graphite, mineral and sage. Full-bodied, dense and firmly structured, with tight tannins, this offers a touch of savory herb and underbrush. Needs time. Best from 2010 through 2017. 872 cases made. –JL October 15, 2009

--Wine Spectator

94 ST

Glass-staining purple. Spicy blackberry and cherry-cola on the nose, with sexy floral and smoky mineral qualities gaining power with air. Deep, forceful dark fruit flavors coat the palate and are framed by gently chewy tannins. The floral and mineral notes build on the finish, which delivers solid punch and betrays no rough edges. These tannins are really suave. 94 points By Josh Raynolds Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, May/Jun 09