Schrader GIII (G3) Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 750ml
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The 2018 Schrader GIII is wonderfully aromatic with mixed berry and red currant fruit compote, red cherries, and a hint of white tea leaves that contribute to its signature charm. On the palate, this medium- to full-bodied wine is eminently engaging with oodles of delicious ripe fruit, red cherries, and sweet toasty oak notes that perfectly balance the abundant fruit flavors. The finish goes on and on and ultimately completes with a hint of vanilla that lingers to the end.
Coming from a larger, famous site in Rutherford, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer GII Vineyard is another superstar in the lineup. Possessing a dense purple color, it delivers a monster bouquet of ripe blackcurrants, chocolate, tobacco, sweet mulch, and a Graves-like sense of gravelly earth and minerality. While I suspect the acidity is quite low, it stays lively on the palate, possessing full-bodied richness, soft tannins, remarkable purity, and a great finish. This super-rich, opulent, incredibly sexy Cabernet Sauvignon should evolve for 20 years or more.
A seductive ripe-fruit and floral nose. Medium-to full-bodied with notes of blackberries, blackcurrants, violets and spice. Light, fresh jam, too. It’s full and compact with a dense, deep palate and beautiful fruit. Firm and bright. Try after 2024.
Schrader’s GIII comes from Beckstoffer’s Georges III vineyard in Rutherford, produced from 337 clone grown on the F block. One hundred percent Cabernet Sauvignon, it was aged in 100% new Darnajou and Taransaud French oak barrels for 18 months. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon GIII Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard springs from the glass with a glorious perfume of violets and lavender, giving way to notes of crushed black currants, black raspberries and red currant jelly, plus an undercurrent of cedar chest and fragrant soil. Full-bodied, firm and grainy, the palate is popping with taut, muscular, vibrant black fruits, supported by wonderfully ripe tannins, finishing long and full of energy.
A big wine, with tiers of cassis, plum reduction and blackberry preserves giving this verticality, while dense graphite and roasted apple wood notes provide the spine. A pretty violet note provides contrast, and there's a long tug of warm earth through the finish too, giving this a very solid grounding. Patience required, as this is locked up right now. Best from 2023 through 2038.
