Nose
The opaque, dark ruby 2008 Beckstoffer Dr. Crane reveals concentrated aromas of ripe
boysenberry, black cherry and dried herbs.
Palate
The dense, powerful palate boasts rich flavors
of black currant, Bing cherry, dark‐roast espresso, pencil shavings and sandlewood. The
extended finish is supported by soft, silky tannins and accentuated by a spice box of sage
and tobacco.
Growing Conditions
2008 began with an exceptionally dry spring and early budbreak. Frosts in
April significantly lowered cluster counts. Weather stabilized and warmed through summer,
with warmer temperatures continuing through harvest. A smaller crop of high quality fruit
was able to ripen fully and evenly, developing an excellent balance of sugars and acid.
Overall, the 2008 wines are bright and expressive with well‐articulated flavors.
Harvest
Hand‐harvested grapes.
Bottling
Unfined and unfiltered; bottled June 2010.
Winemaking
Fermented in small, closed‐top stainless steel fermentors with indigenous yeasts
6‐day cold soak, 34 days total maceration
Spontaneous malolactic fermentation in barrels
Aging
Aged 20 months in French oak barrels; 100% new.