Oak Knoll District - Napa Valley, California
At WineHeist we are always on the lookout for under the radar wineries that are new to us and offering great wines at reasonable prices. But when we find one we like, there is nothing better than finding out that they have several wines available that we can offer our customers throughout the year. Such was the case when we found out we were able to secure a small allocation of the 2006 Crane Brothers estate Cabernet, a wine so rare that only 96 cases were produced. We jumped at the chance to land this beauty from what is quickly becoming one of our favorite small, family-owned and operated producers.
The Crane Ranch is located in Napa’s Oak Knoll district, far enough up-valley to have the warmth needed to ripen thick skinned Cabernet Sauvignon, but close enough to the cooling influence of the San Pablo Bay to prevent dehydration from causing over-ripe flavors in the grapes. The 2006 Crane Brothers Estate Cabernet Sauvignon has 5% Merlot blended in as well, to give the palate just a little bit of lift and add liveliness. Deep ruby red in the glass, with a purple core, the nose is classic Napa Cabernet, with blackberry, black currant, and hints of tobacco. The palate is rich and layered, with cassis, black cherry, vanilla and a hint of cocoa, yet good acidity keeps it from becoming too heavy, and smooth tannins linger on a long, pleasing finish. This wine perfectly exemplifies why Napa Cabernet is such a joy to drink, as it is both fruity and almost sweet making it perfect for drinking on its own, while at the same time remaining a serious wine capable of long-term cellaring or pairing with a variety of foods. A Napa Cabernet of this quality for under $50 is very rare; at $33 this is an absolute steal. With the holidays approaching at an alarming speed, and the long cold winter months ahead, stock up on this one while you have the chance, and it will provide plenty of comfort throughout the winter!
Grape Sourcing: Crane Ranch Vineyard, Oak Knoll Appellation
Varietal Composition: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon & 5% Merlot
Alcohol: 14.5%
Winemaking: Hand harvested in cool morning hours. Fermented in small temperature controlled tanks. Hand sorted & cold soaked for 48 hours.
Harvest Date: October 30th
Cooperage: 20 months of aging in French Oak barrels (60% new oak)
Production: 96 Cases
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
95 Points
Lofty aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, and plum mingle with hints of baking spices and a touch of violet. The palate reveals luscious flavors of ripe berries, complemented by notes of black pepper and a subtle earthiness. With well-integrated tannins and a long lingering finish.
92 Points
Inviting aromas of ripe cherry, strawberry, and pomegranate. The palate unfolds with layered flavors of black cherry, raspberry cordial, vanilla bean and spice, where focused tannins envelop, leading to a rich red fruit finish with blue fruit undertones.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
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