2023 Schrader Cellars Monastery Block Cabernet Sauvignon To Kalon Vineyard | Oakville Napa Valley California 750ml

The Monastery Block is located on the western side of the To Kalon Vineyard, nestled against the foothills of the Mayacamas adjacent to the Carmelite monastery from which it takes its name. The wine is produced from 100% Clone 169 Cabernet Sauvignon planted on well-drained gravelly soils, showing a classic Oakville expression that balances rich black fruit with minerality and a floral component. Elegant and classically styled, this wine is generous, layered, and fresh. | Schrader Cellars

The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon To Kalon Vineyard Monastery Block comes from a smaller parcel of this block and is a region that Thomas feels is clearly superior dirt. Deep purple-hued, with an absolutely insane nose of blackcurrant, smoked tobacco, lead pencil, and crushed stone, it has a First Growth Pauillac-like stature on the palate and is full-bodied, with building tannins and flawless balance. This brilliant Cabernet Sauvignon is going to require patience, but it's worth it. | 97-100 Jeb Dunnuck for jebdunnuck.com